Philip Morris wins right to reporters' records
Article Abstract:
A Virginia Circuit Court judge reversed an earlier ruling in Philip Morris Cos. v. American Broadcasting Cos. and found that the tobacco manufacturer had met the burden for overcoming the qualified privilege protecting reporters. The issue arose in a $10 billion libel suit against the broadcaster for airing a story claiming that tobacco companies laced their products with extra nicotine. Philip Morris showed that subpoena of credit card and telephone records was necessary to prove their case. The subpoena has since been stayed pending further appeal.
Publication Name: News Media & the Law
Subject: Literature/writing
ISSN: 0149-0737
Year: 1995
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Reporters not required to disclose sources
Article Abstract:
The Texas Court of Appeals has ruled in Dallas Morning News v Garcia that the press is not required to disclose its sources of information that are part of a libel case. The court stated that the press is privileged under the First Amendment and the Texas Constitution, and that plaintiffs suing the press must first exhaust all other sources in order to overcome the press' privilege. The press has the burden of proving it has the privilege, but once shown, plaintiffs bear the burden of proving statements made by the press are false and defamatory.
Publication Name: News Media & the Law
Subject: Literature/writing
ISSN: 0149-0737
Year: 1992
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Improper testimony about source must be challenged at trial, court says
Article Abstract:
The US Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit has ruled that journalists may keep their sources confidential in public figure libel suits and still testify as to their sources' credibility. Morarji Desai, a former prime minister of India, had sued journalist Seymour Hersh for statements Hersh made in a book stating Desai had been paid by the CIA as an informant. Because Desai did not object to Hersh's testimony at trial he could not appeal its admission.
Publication Name: News Media & the Law
Subject: Literature/writing
ISSN: 0149-0737
Year: 1992
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