Covering the Courts: A Handbook for Journalists / Edition 2

by S. L. Alexander

Overview

News coverage of law can be a daunting task for any journalist, especially in a time when public interest in media coverage of the courts has greatly intensified. The second edition of Covering the Courts provides the most up-to-date resources for journalists and students. Detailed descriptions of each step of the judicial process along with tips from top journalists allow for a comprehensive analysis of courtroom activities. This handbook also addresses the complex issues surrounding the free press/fair trial controversy, pre-trial publicity, and the various types of news coverage allowed across the country. New discussions include recent high-profile trials such as US v Microsoft, the 2000 presidential election, and cases relating to the terrorist attacks of 9/11. This book is a substantial resource for journalism students and journalists covering the modern legal system.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780742520219
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	04/15/2003
Edition description:	2nd Edition
Pages:	184
Product dimensions:	6.08(w) x 9.38(h) x 0.78(d)

About the Author

S. L. Alexander is a journalist and coordinator of communications law at Loyola University, New Orleans.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Preface Chapter 2 Introduction Chapter 3 The Judicial System Chapter 4 Criminal Procedure Chapter 5 Civil Procedure Chapter 6 Criminal Cases: Pre-Trial Coverage Chapter 7 Criminal Cases: The Trial Chapter 8 Criminal Cases: Post-Trial Activity Chapter 9 Civil Cases Chapter 10 Cameras in Courtrooms Chapter 11 Covering the Courts Part 12 Codes of Ethics Part 13 Canons, Standards, and Rules Part 14 Guidelines for Coverage

Editorial Reviews

A must-read for any reporter whose beat might include the courts. Alexander methodically steps the reader through the processes in clear, concise style. Starting with an overview of the fair trial/free press conflict built into the First and Sixth amendments, she uses current examples from high-profile trials to illustrate how the courts and media have collided. Alexander's book is comprehensive without being overwhelming for the journalist who needs to learn about this field.

Judicature