Garren v. Southland Corporation

Hall, Justice.

We granted certiorari in this case to consider whether or not the oral reading of a written defamation is publication of a libel. This is an issue of first impression in Georgia. Our interpretation of the relevant statute, Code Ann. § 105-705, and the authorities and law of other states, convince us to answer the question affirmatively.

The plaintiff in this case was employed at one of defendant’s 7-11 stores, but was "discharged for shortages.” An entry to this effect was made in her personnel file. The plaintiff then applied for employment elsewhere. When that prospective…