In the introductory post on handling the media, we learned how the effective criminal defense attorney must always consider how media coverage can affect their client’s interests during the litigation process, even here in Bryan|College Station, Texas. In high profile criminal cases the defense lawyer should learn to think like a reporter and learn to recognize a newsworthy angle on their case. In other words, what things about the case constitutes “news” and how does the lawyer prepare to represent their client zealously in the media? First though, the defense lawyer must know the facts.
Many lawyers are reluctant to talk to the press for fear of violating the rules of ethics
To present a newsworthy angle on their case the lawyer must know the facts of the case intimately before talking with the press. If the lawyer makes a mistake it will be forever recorded in print and in website archives. Since other reporters will look to past stories for background information they are likely to repeat the lawyer’s error in their own stories. In this case, credibility may be lost and the client’s case can suffer harm.
In future posts we’ll continue our exploration of areas in which a Bryan|College Station criminal defense lawyer can prepare to make the best use of the media to zealously represent their client. Check out other articles of interest here. Also, visit my Bryan|College Station Criminal Defense Blog for other posts about handling the media and trial advocacy.