Final answer:
Expert witnesses are generally immune from libel and slander claims due to their role in providing testimony within the legal proceedings, promoting a truthful judicial process free from fear of personal legal consequences. c. Immune from when no errors are made.
Step-by-step explanation:
Expert witnesses are typically immune from libel and slander claims that might arise from their testimony in a legal proceeding. This immunity is granted because expert witnesses are giving testimony as part of the judicial process, and it is understood that they are there to aid in the fact-finding mission of the court.
Their immunity is important to maintain the integrity of the judicial process, as it encourages experts to speak freely and honestly without fear of retaliation through defamation claims. It is important to note, however, that this immunity applies as long as the testimony is related to the proceedings and is given in the context of the judicial process. If an expert were to make defamatory statements unrelated to their testimony or outside of court proceedings, this immunity might not apply.
Libel and slander are specific types of defamation that involve making false statements with the intent to harm someone's reputation. Libel refers to written defamation, while slander refers to spoken defamation. In a legal setting, expert witnesses fulfill a crucial role by providing specialized knowledge to inform the court. Given that their role is to contribute to the justice system, they are provided certain protections, fostering an environment where the truth can emerge without the concern for personal legal repercussions for their testimony.