Chapter 7: PR and the Law

These flashcards cover key concepts and legal terms related to Public Relations and the law, including civil and criminal laws, responses to rumors, and definitions of libel and slander.

What varies from country to country when it comes to PR laws?

What is legal.

What is necessary to work globally in the field of PR?

Familiarity with the laws in all countries in which you work.

What are the three areas of PR legal exposure?

Normal, Work-oriented, and Extraneous laws.

What are examples of civil law issues that can affect PR communication activities?

Copyright infringement, violating SEC regulations, and distributing misleading news releases.

What are some examples of criminal law that can impact PR?

Bribery, price fixing, mail fraud, securities manipulation, and perjury.

What are the three options for responding to rumors or leaks?

Admit and disclose, make no comment and deny, dodge and mislead.

What are the key PR responses required in the age of the Internet?

Speed, engagement, and rumor control.

What is the definition of libel?

Written or otherwise published defamation.

What is the definition of slander?

Spoken defamation.

In a civil libel case, what must be proven when public officials or figures are involved?

Actual malice.

What constitutes publication in the context of civil libel?

Dissemination of more than one copy, including office memos, letters, and emails.

What is the definition of criminal libel?

Breach of peace or treason, inciting to riot or some form of violence, and publishing obscenity or blasphemy.

When does slander become civil libel?

When it is broadcasted with a prepared script distributed to two or more people.