Alabama § 6-5-186 - Prerequisites to Recovery of Vindictive or Punitive Damages in Action for Libel.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 6-5-186 — Prerequisites to Recovery of Vindictive or Punitive Damages in Action for Libel., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 6-5-186. Prerequisites to Recovery of Vindictive or Punitive Damages in Action for Libel.
Vindictive or punitive damages shall not be recovered in any action for libel on account of any publication unless (1) it shall be proved that the publication was made by the defendant with knowledge that the matter published was false, or with reckless disregard of whether it was false or not, and (2) it shall be proved that five days before the commencement of the action the plaintiff shall have made written demand upon the defendant for a public retraction of the charge or matter published; and the defendant shall have failed or refused to publish within five days, in as prominent and public a place or manner as the charge or matter published occupied, a full and fair retraction of such charge or matter.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 6-5-186
What does Code of Alabama § 6-5-186 cover?
Section 6-5-186 ("Prerequisites to Recovery of Vindictive or Punitive Damages in Action for Libel.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 6-5-186?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 6-5-186" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 6-5-186 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.