Case Denied: Libel & Slander

We should begin with a simple definition:  According to the Free Dictionary "Two torts that involve the communication of false information about a person, a group, or an entity such as a corporation. Libel is any Defamation that can be seen, such as a writing, printing, effigy, movie, or statue. Slander is any defamation that is spoken and heard."
Okay, maybe not so simple!  Question however is, does your basic Homeowners or Renters insurance policy provide coverage for those two "torts?"  Most of the time your Case will be Denied!  
There is however an "endorsement" you can add to your policy should you be the type of person that finds it hard to hold back your true feelings when in a conversation or writing a note or letter!  
First would be the signing of a Personal Injury Endorsement on your policy!  However you need to know that adding this only covers Libel and Slander that was "unintentional."  If you actually set out to say something or write something that had the elements of Libel or Slander, this endorsement would not provide you protection!
Next thing for Protection would be to add "Umbrella" coverage!  This is over and above your normal policy and is usually set from $100,000 to over one million depending on your net worth that needs protection.  To have this coverage you first need to add the Personal Injury Endorsement to your policy.  The Umbrella policy is an all Risk type liability policy that not only covers Libel and Slander but also provides protection for defamation of character, wrongful imprisonment, invasion of privacy and defamation of character taking place in your home.  Again, the amount of coverage should be determined based on your net worth that you feel needs to be protected.  In other words if you have nothing to lose than you don't need this type of coverage!  However, if you have a real estate and other valuable property such as jewelry, stocks and bonds and other such valuables then you should consider this type of coverage!
If your insurance company accepts your claim and provides a defense they will also use a staff attorney or hire one from their referral list.  If you do not feel the insurance company has provided you the best defense, some policies will also pay for you to hire your own attorney?  Often times there is a conflict of interest in using the insurance attorney that was hired to protect the insurance company and you!  You will most likely need some free legal advise before going down that path!
Bottom line:  Watch what you say and write!  Always strive to be Politically Correct in your conversations and things you put in writing.  In today's environment things you say or write in response to anything can be used against you; case in point "Paula Deen."
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