Pre-publication advice

For most of us, "free expression" or "free speech" rights feel absolute.  We say what's on our minds, and there are few, if any, consequences. The legal limits are irrelevant, and few learn what in fact they are.

In many ways that’s a great thing.  The feeling of liberation that comes with being able to say whatever you like, whenever you like, is fulfilling, therapeutic, and essential to being human. 

Most of us learn, though, that it’s not that simple.  Peer pressure and codes of ethics (personal, religious, or professional) guide what we say, and a variety of laws can restrict us, if they’re called into play. 

Journalists, publishers and broadcasters have understood this for a long time, but in recent years, the internet has changed the equation for everyone.  Social media have expanded the audience dramatically for our simplest thoughts.  Now, risks of a lawsuit or a prosecution are potentially everywhere.

The greatest risk for a democracy, though, is too much self-censorship, based on unwarranted fears of whatever legal risks might be out there. 

My goal is to help you put those legal risks in focus, and empower you to say what you want, confidently.  In most cases, you can say what you want, in strong language.  You just need to know the rules of the free speech road.

For over three decades in the Law Department at CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation), I’ve helped communicators of all kinds (producers, reporters, writers, bloggers, photographers, videographers, editors, broadcast executives, spokespersons…) safely publish their thoughts, and, where necessary, obtain whatever rights were required to do so.  I can help you do the same.

Contact me for specific advice on content you're considering  broadcasting, posting, or publishing,

or consider if a Seminar would be right for you or your organization.