Court Cases

Cohen v. Cowles Media Co. (1982)

The Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that the doctrine of Promissory Estoppel does not have to apply to Journalists, which allows Journalists to release information without fear of breaking a contractual agreement.

Near v. Minnesota (1931)

This case was concerned with information that revolted against Multiple Minnesota City Officials. The officials the journalist to court, asked for an injunction to prevent the release of the documents using the doctrine of prior restraint. The Court deemed the injunction unconstitutional and allowed the release of the documents.

Nebraska Press Association v. Stuart (1976)

In a high profile murder trial, a judge ordered that the public recording of the case to be prohibited in order to prevent an unfair trial. The Supreme court stepped in and said that the judges order violated the first amendment rights of the press. Now, most trials within the U.S are televised.

Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier (1988)

In this case, a student led newspaper submitted articles to be approved by the schools principal for release. The principal deemed some of the articles to be inappropriate and prevented their release. The students challenged the schools actions in court. The Court stated that schools do not have to endorse certain speeches, and said that the principal could use "prior restraint" to stop the release of certain articles.

Branzburg v. Hayes (1971)

In this case members of the press were reporting on drug dealers and the actions of the Black Panther. The journalists in question got information while promising to keep their informants secret. When asked to testify in court, the journalists refused. They were taken to court, and the court ruled that journalists do not retain the right to refuse to testify in court.

Chandler v. Florida (1981)

Two Miami police officers accused of theft and grand larceny asked that the press not be allowed into the courtroom on the grounds it violated their due process rights. The supreme court disagreed and said that the press must be allowed into the court room.

New York Times Co. v. Sullivan (1964)

This case concerns the publication of false information about Martin Luther King and his arrest. Alabama challenged the publication, citing libel and how the false information could cause damages. The court disagreed, stating that libel can only be proven if prior malace can be proven prior to the publication.