Manuel Applied for a Variance from the Local Zoning Ordinance

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 against Sandra? What are the elements that he must prove to win a case of slander? What defenses can Sandra raise to the action?