Protecting clients’ First Amendment rights and other constitutional guarantees is a high calling. The cases challenge counsel and the courts and most often are not susceptible to settlement. The results are always of the greatest importance. The attorneys at Vetter & White understand the unique nature of these cases and the special sensitivities they present.

We have represented various media and individual members of the media in all aspects of their work—from prepublication review to defense of defamation claims, from fighting for access to courtrooms and court records to protecting reporters from subpoenas—our attorneys have an understanding of newsgathering and reporting and of the commitment necessary to represent media clients effectively.

• We have defended both major national publications and private individuals in defamation actions, obtaining dismissals and favorable jury verdicts. On an expedited appeal, we overturned a prior restraint order that prohibited publication of the identity of an adult witness in a molestation case.
• We have protected reporters from subpoenas issued by prosecutors as well as private litigants, obtained protective orders from courts and, where appropriate, negotiated alternatives to subpoena compliance.
• We have been trusted advisors to news organizations on the use and implications of differing newsgathering techniques.
• We have established Rhode Island precedent permitting access to public records in computerized and electronic form.
• We have repeatedly provided prepublication review of sensitive and important news stories.