The Law of defamation in Bermuda

Bermuda is a self-governing overseas dependent territory of the United Kingdom. In Bermuda defamation is actionable both as a civil wrong and as a criminal offence.

Civil Law

The civil law of defamation in Bermuda is substantially the same as the English law of libel and slander prior to the enactment of the Defamation Act 1952. In their judgments, the courts cite Bermuda legislation, English and Bermuda case law and the leading English text, Gatley on Libel and Slander.

Defamation law protecting the reputations of persons is considered a reasonable restriction on the fundamental right of freedom of expression, except insofar as the provisions of that law are shown not to be reasonably justifiable in a democratic society (Bermuda Constitution Order 1968, s.9).