Manuel Applied for a Variance from the Local Zoning Ordinance

question 6

Essay

Manuel applied for a variance from the local zoning ordinance in order to build a building.His neighbor Sandra appeared before the zoning board to speak in opposition to the application.At the hearing,Sandra testified under oath and made several untruthful statements regarding Manuel's character which she believed,but which were not correct.The variance was denied.Manuel is now considering a lawsuit against Sandra for slander.Does Manuel have a valid cause of action for slander against Sandra? Explain.What are the elements that he must prove to win a case of slander? What defenses can Sandra raise to the action?

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Definitions:

Todd Risley

Todd Risley was an American psychologist who, along with Betty Hart, conducted influential research on early childhood language development and the profound impact of the quantity and quality of words children are exposed to.

Acting White

A term used to describe a scenario where minority individuals are perceived as adopting the cultural traits, behaviors, or interests associated with Caucasian people, often leading to accusations of betraying one's racial identity.

John Ogbu

An anthropologist known for his work on minority education in the United States, particularly regarding the concept of "voluntary" and "involuntary" minorities.

Social Capital

The networks of relationships among people who live and work in a particular society, enabling that society to function effectively, often associated with trust, cooperation, and reciprocity.