Legal considerations for communications and media work

An important part of any PR toolkit is an understanding of when and how the law can be used to help protect your college’s corporate reputation, particularly in a crisis. Letting a reporter or editor know that you understand your college’s legal rights ahead of the publication of a potentially damaging story may make them think twice; to say a story is libellous has more impact than saying it is wrong. It is also important to have a working knowledge of the law of contempt, which determines what can and cannot be published once legal proceedings are in force.

This is a complex area and if in doubt about legal issues, always seek advice from senior colleagues, your college’s retained lawyers, or contact AoC’s communications team for some initial guidance. Please note: AoC’s communications team are not legal experts and, while we can talk through the things you need to be aware of or consider, we do not offer legal advice.

The detailed guide below covers:

• Media coverage in court cases

• Liaising with the police when a case comes to court

• Juveniles

• Sexual offences

• Victims of crime

• Contempt of Court

• Defamation

• Freedom of Information Act 2000

• Data Protection Act

• Copyright

• Useful guides and resources