Lawyers and Reporters : Understanding and Working with the Media

Rating:
Summary: Excellent Guide for Lawyers Dealing with the Media
Review: This is a very useful and instructive book--a "must read" for lawyers who may have the opportunity or challenge of dealing with the media. Lawyers should read it now, because they won't have time when a reporter calls. It gives excellent insights into the goals and approaches of reporters. It suggests helpful rules of etiquette and tactics for handling media contacts. For example, return calls in a timely fashion, before the reporter's deadline, even if just to say that you cannot comment. It explains the difference between on the record, off the record, and "on background." These can be critical distinctions that will determine whether a potentially embarrassing quote is attributed to you in print. The book also has many lists of useful tips and checklists. So it will serve as a great future reference, in case you've forgotten what it taught you by the time you need it.