This guide covers defamation and reputational torts from the elements through trial. Part 1 sets out the five elements and the two that most claims fail on, and Part 2 covers the fault standards and the public figure analysis that determines them. Part 3 covers opinion, provable falsity, substantial truth, and defamation by implication. Part 4 covers defamation per se and the damages architecture that makes reference-call cases viable at all. Part 5 sets out the absolute and qualified privileges, where most claims actually end, and Part 6 covers online statements, platform immunity, and anonymous speakers. Part 7 covers anti-SLAPP procedure and retraction statutes, both of which change the value of a claim before any discovery. Part 8 covers the adjacent torts that are frequently stronger than defamation on the same facts. Parts 9 through 12 cover employer references, limitations and the single publication rule, litigation and damages proof, and insurance and realistic resolution.