Reporters and photographers who are covering protests in their communities are encouraged to keep the following in mind:
Generally, you have a First Amendment right to cover a protest and shoot videos and photos, subject to reasonable limitations imposed by the National Guard and law enforcement.
Prominently display your press credentials.
If interviewing, know whether the law of your state requires the consent of any source whose conversation you wish to record.
Follow direct commands by police and respect barricades.
Avoid surrendering recording equipment or cell phones to law enforcement immediately on demand. (Circumstances permitting, ask the requesting party for a search warrant or the opportunity to call your organization's lawyer.)
At the same time, avoid getting arrested. (It is easier to avoid an arrest than it is to free a reporter from jail.)
Carry the cell phone number for your organization's newsroom lawyer or call America's Newspapers' EMERGENCY LEGAL HOTLINE: (919) 306-3319.
John Bussian is counsel to America's Newspapers and is a member of the board of directors.
