Covering the Courts

A Handbook for Journalists

By (author) S. L. Alexander

Publication date:

04 March 2003

Length of book:

184 pages

Publisher

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

Dimensions:

238x154mm
6x9"

ISBN-13: 9780742520219

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.
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.