This user-friendly text sets out in a logical order the sequence of events in a case of defamation. It covers: the first decision as to what is defamatory; the letter before the action; any application for an injunction; statement of claim; and defence following through to trial. Reflecting the fact that most cases are settled out of court, the book also includes advice on Statements in open court as well as clear steps for practitioners in each stage of a libel action. The book also examines the recent reforms to this branch of law following the proposals of the Neill Committee's report. An entire chapter is devoted to pleadings in defamation actions and full details of defences available are covered here also. It is intended for: solicitors (specializing in media law); commercial media lawyers; night lawyers; common law barristers; company secretaries; and in-house lawyers.