Chapter 14

 A false & defamatory attack in written form  On a persons reputation or character  Be careful if ▪ You are negligent in publishing ▪ Uncertainty ▪ Inaccuracy ▪ Lack of follow up ▪ Targets specific persons reputation  Truth is the best defense against libel

 Public officials/Public figures  Must prove actual “Malice”  More difficult to prove libel  Private figures  Easier to prove libel

 Paramount for a good journalist  Mistakes ▪ Jeopardize organizations credibility ▪ Result in printing of corrections ▪ Should you show your story to sources or read to them before you print?

 Absolute Privilege ▪ Public officials (Including law enforcement) ▪ Are exempt from libel ▪ If statements are made in the course of their official duties  Qualified Privilege ▪ Defamatory statements can be printed by media ▪ If they are made by those with absolute privilege ▪ And don’t contain errors

 “Person of interest”  Term being used for someone being investigated ▪ But hasn’t been arrested or charged  Never call anyone a “Murderer” ▪ Unless they have been convicted ▪ Neighbors Statements (who aren’t officials) ▪ Can’t be printed

 Grounds for invasion of privacy court cases ▪ Intrusion ▪ Public disclosure of private & embarrassing facts ▪ False light ▪ Misappropriation of person’s name or image ▪ Without permission