Justification

This is a complete defence but also a difficult option because the claimant does not need to show that the words complained about were untrue. The problem is that the defendant must show the words were true. This makes justification a very complex way to defend yourself in a case. 

Facts must be proved to be true, so must the precise truth of each defamatory statement. Justification also has to take into account more than the simple meaning of the words. For example: to say someone is a liar can imply a one off or an habitual action.

Signed statements from witnesses are important for justification as is evidence from notebooks and tape recordings.