A libel lawyer expressly deals with legal cases regarding false and damaging statements made by defendants against the lawyer's client. These statements, in the case of a libel lawyer, are spoken or oral in nature. However, the publicity or audience of these statements, which are proven false or derogatory, will cause damage to one's reputation, and in turn, affect their ability to earn an income, cause emotional distress, and other damages. Having an attorney to defend oneself against these attacks, as well as potentially obtain an injunction to prevent the release of further slanderous and libelous materials is beneficial. Cases involving defamation may also become criminal in nature, if it is proven that there is malicious intent involving illegal methods or means of disseminating the information. An attorney is also useful in these instances as well.