STIGMA-PLUS DOCTRINE

stigma-plus doctrine. The principle that defamation by a government official is not actionable as a civil-rights violation unless the victim suffers not only embarrassment but also the loss of a property interest (such as continued employment in a government job). [Cases: Civil Rights 1038; Libel and Slander 32. C.J.S. Civil Rights §§ 18, 20, 23–24; […]