{"code":"CIV","codeName":"Civil Code","section":"45a","citation":"Civ. Code, § 45a","status":"in-force","lawOn":"2026-09-28","headings":[{"name":"DIVISION 1. PERSONS [38. - 86.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/civil-code/division-1"},{"name":"PART 2. PERSONAL RIGHTS [43. - 53.7.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/civil-code/division-1/part-2"}],"history":"Added by Stats. 1945, Ch. 1489.","effective":null,"html":"<p>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 <a href=\"/civ/48a\">48a</a> of this code.</p>","text":"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.","otherVersions":[],"url":"https://blackletter.si/civil-code/personal-rights-45a","source":"California Legislative Information bulk export (pubinfo)"}