#5- Reporter's Privilege
Journalism is a dangerous job. In certain parts of the world this danger is physical but in the U.S. the danger is often from a standpoint of legality. Luckily in addition to the first amendment many states protect journalist with shield laws. These laws are put in place to protect both the journalists and their sources confidentiality. While these laws don't apply strictly to people in the field of journalism they do benefit them greatly.
In addition these laws protect witnesses in court cases and rape victim's privacy. The majority of states have some form of shield laws or protection with the exception of Wyoming. Most all states provide at least some sort of qualified privilege. This provides safety from lawsuits usually involving defamation or slander. As long as the person in question meets the states requirements they cannot be sued for truthful statements, or in most cases personal opinion. This is particularly helpful for journalists trying to expose nefarious activities. Provided they have the proper evidence they cannot be sued for defamation.
In addition these laws protect witnesses in court cases and rape victim's privacy. The majority of states have some form of shield laws or protection with the exception of Wyoming. Most all states provide at least some sort of qualified privilege. This provides safety from lawsuits usually involving defamation or slander. As long as the person in question meets the states requirements they cannot be sued for truthful statements, or in most cases personal opinion. This is particularly helpful for journalists trying to expose nefarious activities. Provided they have the proper evidence they cannot be sued for defamation.
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