Friday, April 22, 2011

Libel-Media Law/First Amendment Study Guide

Be familiar with the definition of libel and how libel differs for private citizens versus celebrities.

What has to occur for libel to take place: identification, defamation and publication. Understand the definition of these three ingredients.

Understand the concept of “actual malice” and why celebrities need to prove it in order to win a libel suit.

Know the details of New York Times Vs. Sullivan, the Supreme Court case that established the concept of “actual malice.”

Know the difference between libel per se and libel per quod and examples of each of these forms of libel.

Know what constitutes bad taste, breach of contract, fabrication and contempt of court.

What are the defenses for libel: truth, retractions, an apology in print?

What are shield laws.

Be familiar with common ethical problems that reporters face such as freebies, unnamed sources, etc.

Know the definition of the First Amendment and be familiar with the rights it guarantees regarding speech, petition and the press.

How are the courts interpreting libel when it comes to digital media such as the internet.

Know the differences between libel and slander.

Know the role of the courts in relation to the First Amendment.

What are some of the restrictions on the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment?

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