Before a report is published
A short response deadline from a journalist requires a careful assessment of the proposed allegations, the evidence and the planned identification of the person or business concerned. We help prepare a factual response and assess legal objections to the publication.
Information for the initial review
Please keep the complete enquiry, attachments, correspondence and deadline. Separate documented facts from unresolved questions and identify confidential material. An incomplete or hurried response can create additional difficulties.
Advice for editorial teams
We review text, headlines, images and quotations in their full context. Research, source reliability, opportunities to respond and the public interest are considered together with the rights affected. We also assist with responses to complaints and the defence of publications.
Choosing the appropriate response
Depending on the publication, the options may include a reply to the journalist, clarification, a correction, a right-of-reply request or an application for an injunction. Each option has its own requirements; a critical report is not automatically unlawful.
When time is short
Include the intended publication time and your response deadline in the first enquiry. We assess what can realistically be reviewed within the available time and agree the next steps with you.