Freedom of Information

In Pursuit of the News

By Kathleen Kirby,

Do journalists have the same freedom to gather as to disseminate news? Many journalists assume that First Amendment protections apply as forcefully to the former as to the latter. It only makes sense, right? After all, how could the press be expected to fulfill its constitutionally protected role as public informer without the constitutionally protected ability to gather information?

Lines and Levels of Privacy

Where and when does an individual have a reasonable expectation of privacy? The question is an important one for journalists and their lawyers. Whether reporters expose themselves to liability by engaging in certain newsgathering activities-particularly undercover investigations-often hinges upon the privacy expectation.

Wiretapped Conversations

Recall this juicy story from three years ago: Rep. John Boehner was vacationing in Florida. While in his car, the Ohio Congressman used his cell phone in a conference call with other House Republicans, including Reps. Dick Armey, Tom DeLay, and then-Speaker Newt Gingrich. The group discussed tactics to be used in the House Ethics Committee's investigation of Gingrich

Hidden Cameras - Protocol for Use

Reprinted from Communications Lawyer, Forum on Communications Law American Bar Association Volume 16, Number 4, Winter 1999, pp. 22-23