Protecting Sources and Materials
Subpoenas and government searches and seizures directed at members of the press pose a serious threat to newsgathering and reporting. While there is no federal “shield” law in the United States, most federal courts have recognized that journalists have a limited right not to be compelled to testify or to disclose sources and information in court. Forty states and the District of Columbia have shield laws that protect sources and materials, but they vary in scope and strength. Explore our work in this area below.
