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1st Amendment and Free Speech/1st. Amendent protections of sources
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Question
Can journalists be convected of Obstruction Of Justice by refussing to reveal their sorces?
Should journalists have Bill of Rights protections to safeguard their sources?
Thank you;
Dante'
Hi Dante,
The First Amendment does not exempt reporters who can be compelled as witnesses to illegal activity. Since everyone is protected by the First Amendment, such a rule would mean no one could be compelled to be a witness.
That said, 28 states have "reporter shield" laws that give reporters some level of protection in keeping their sources a secret. But these laws vary considerably from State to State in the levels of protection.
I hope this helps!
- Mike
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Answers by Expert:
Michael Troy
Expertise
I will answer general questions regarding freedom of speech, petition, or religion. I specialize in cases involving public employment or education, as well as issues related to campaign finance. But I can`t give specific legal advice involving specific cases you might have.
Experience
As an attorney for the Center for Individual Rights, I worked on a number of free speech cases, including Rosenberger v. Univ. of Virginia, in which the Supreme Court upheld my clients' right to run a student newspaper without discrimination because of its religious conent. I also worked on White v. Julian, which protected the right of people to protest against a homeless shelter in their neighborhood.
I also worked for the Federal Election Commission on several cases regarding the right to participate in the election process.
Organizations
Former Attorney for Center for Individual Rights.
Publications
Washington Post
Washington Times
Education/Credentials
J.D. from Univ. of Michigan Law School
Awards and Honors
Truman Scholar
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