Re: [Paddlewise] Policy Intended To Protect PaddleWise Members From Misquotings

Fred wrote:

> Tamia, shame on you.  I question your journalistic integrity.  Ms. Nelson,
> why would you utilize "paraphrased" quotes that by your own admittance
will
> not be correct?   I shall shun her and her articles!   Put a spin on that
> or quote it (excuse me:  miss-paraphrase it.)

Well, it's not entirely clear from what Jackie said that Ms. Nelson *knows*
she will misquote or mis-paraphrase, or intends to do so, only that it
*could* happen.  I don't know enough about her to make a judgment, so I will
withhold judgment until and learn more or see what she does.

But I did want to add another thought.  I rarely offer any form of "legal
advice" in these types of forums, and Jackie please let me know if I should
refrain even more. . . but . . . there is some substantial precedent for
suing a journalist or author who misquotes someone and changes the meaning
of what they said.  The claim would sound in defamation.  The theory would
be that by incorrectly quoting (or, I believe, paraphrasing) someone in a
way that mis-represents their statements or ideas, and that thereby
"damages" them (hurts their "reputation", if you will), the offending party
has in effect made a "false statement" about the person in question.  One of
the lawyers at my old firm sued a well-known publication (run by a famous
person that I am friendly with, sadly) and won on this theory.  So. . .
journalists beware.

Now, the above is not legal advice and should not be relied on.  Consult an
attorney in your own jurisdiction.  Mileage may vary.  <g>

Mark




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