Civil Code section 45a


A libel which is defamatory of the plaintiff without the necessity of explanatory matter, such as an inducement, innuendo or other extrinsic fact, is said to be a libel on its face. Defamatory language not libelous on its face is not actionable unless the plaintiff alleges and proves that he has suffered special damage as a proximate result thereof. Special damage is defined in Section 48a of this code.

Source: Section 45a, https://leginfo.­legislature.­ca.­gov/faces/codes_displaySection.­xhtml?lawCode=CIV§ionNum=45a.­ (updated Jan. 1, 1945; accessed Jun. 25, 2025).

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Verified:
Jun. 25, 2025

§ 45a's source at ca​.gov