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by danielweber 4435 days ago
In science, maybe.

But in American courts, if I call you a dog-fornicator, you generally have to prove to the court you aren't a dog-fornicator to get damages. (Plus a bunch of other stuff, like actual damages, unless it's per-se defamation, except if . . . . There's a lot that could be added to this, hence my "generally.")
2 comments
mikeash 4435 days ago
If you're attempting to get damages, then you are the accuser, and naturally the burden of proof falls on you.
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baddox 4435 days ago
> in American courts, if I call you a dog-fornicator, you generally have to prove to the court you aren't a dog-fornicator to get damages.

To get damages? That's another issue. In American courts, the accused would not have to prove to the court that they aren't a dog fornicator. The prosecution has to prove you the accused is guilty.

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