After completing this chapter you should be able to:

• Understand the value of the First Amendment with regard to journalistic activity as well as the misconceptions people hold about its applicability.
• Identify the key components of libel and apply them to potentially libelous situations.
• Apply the various defenses of libel to potentially libelous situations.
• Explain the rationale behind open meetings and open records and be able to investigate the laws governing each as they apply to your state.
• Understand the basic tenets of privacy and the ways in which reporters can violate the right to privacy.
• Define and differentiate between public and private areas as well as public figures, limited-purpose public figures and private individuals.
• Discuss issues related to confidentiality and press shield laws.