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SPECIAL DIRECTIVE 02-03

MEDIA POLICY

- DA Media Policy PDF -

October 25, 2002

We represent the People of the State of California. The people have a right to know what we do on their behalf and what goes on in their criminal justice system. Most members of the public gain their perception and understanding of the justice system and of the District Attorney’s Office through the news media. We owe it to members of the public to ensure that they are accurately, truthfully and fully informed. This must be accomplished within the confines of the law, established principles of professional ethics and with due regard for the protection of victims and witnesses.

At a Saturday seminar after my election, media issues were addressed. A draft media policy was distributed. I indicated at that time that the office’s media policy was a "work in progress" and that you would be provided with an update when significant changes or additions were made. Attached is a copy of our revised media policy. It will be included in the new Legal Policies Manual when it is issued, but I wanted to make the revised policy available to you now.

There are two significant policy changes. First, as a general rule, we will not oppose cameras in the courtroom nor extended media coverage of cases. Second, we will oppose the imposition of gag orders.

Traditionally, this office has had a strong media relations team to ensure that the media is timely notified of newsworthy cases or events and understands the role and ethical obligations of a public prosecutor. The present team -- Joe Scott, Director of Communications; Sandi Gibbons, Public Information Officer; and Jane Robison, News Secretary -- should be promptly notified of and updated on any newsworthy information. In addition, they are available to help you when you are contacted by anyone from the news media. Their combined 75 years of news media experience is invaluable. Please use them.

It is vital that open and professional lines of communication are maintained between our office and the news media. The attached policy is designed to achieve that objective.

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