William E. Lee, University of Georgia

Focusing on the implications of the law for practitioners, this annually updated text examines legal issues affecting journalism, political and commercial speech, and electronic media.

The 2007 Update of this top-selling media law text includes the most current information explaining the law as it applies to the daily work of writers, broadcasters, advertisers, cable operators, Internet service providers, public relations practitioners, photographers, and other public communicators.

By presenting statutes and cases in a cohesive manner that is understandable even to students studying law for the first time, the authors ensure that students will acquire a firm grasp of the legal issues affecting the media.

New to the Seventh Edition

§     Includes coverage of recent broadcasting indecency and profanity developments including the Janet Jackson/Super Bowl case, the Saving Private Ryan case, and consent decrees involving the Viacom, Emmis, and Clear Channel broadcasting groups.

§     Discusses the Colorado Supreme Court ruling prohibiting media publication of intimate information about Kobe Bryant’s accuser.

§     Describes Ashcroft v. ACLU II, in which the Supreme Court found the Child Online Protection Act to be unconstitutional.

§     Reviews new cases regarding the confidentiality of reporters’ telephone records and sources as well as new challenges to freedom of the college press.

§     Reports a Supreme Court ruling to uphold government-mandated assessments on beef producers to fund generic advertising.

§     Reviews the Supreme Court’s ruling in Tory v. Cochran, which vacates an injunction against picketing.

Praise for The Law of Public Communication

“Most all other textbooks would get a royal treatment from me regarding corrections and suggestions for change. But I honestly regard this to be one of the best textbooks I’ve ever used –or read.

– James Parker, Concord University

“I have nothing but kudos for the focus of the text. It covers everything we need to talk about and more. Each of the chapters is vital to the average journalist’s understanding of his/her world.… It’s packed with information, useful information, and a deep understanding of the law. It’s a great book.”