ABSTRACT
Broadcast journalists operate within a legal framework, regulated by the statutory bodies that govern broadcasting and the laws of the land. The laws on breach of confidence are used by individuals and governments to try to keep information secret and to preserve their privacy. Copyright is a branch of intellectual property law designed to protect the products of people's work and time. Defamation is probably the biggest risk faced by working journalists. Civil actions for libel in pursuit of damages may be taken out against a broadcaster by anyone who considers they have been defamed. Civil courts deal with the rights and duties of individuals towards each other. The court has powers to limit reporting under the Contempt of Court Act 1981. An area where broadcasters in particular run a risk of contempt is the definition of the precincts of the court.
