NCJ Number
149614
Date Published
1993
Length
65 pages
Annotation
These guidelines for media relations conducted by U.S. Attorneys' Offices present the fundamental principles of media relations, steps in starting a media program, publicity techniques, when and how to present news releases, and feature areas of promotion.
Abstract
The first section discusses what constitutes "news." The author advises that when determining whether an event is worth publicizing, its social value, its local or national interest, and its uniqueness should be considered. This is followed by an outline of the general rules in media relations. They include learning the needs and the roles of the media, cultivating relations with reporters, not playing favorites with the media, not attempting to create a story where one does not exist, always telling the truth, and not leaking information or talking "off the record." Another principle is not to attempt concealing negative issues. Negative issues should be faced directly, and the truth should be told. Steps in starting a media program include launching a media program, compiling a mailing list, coordinating a media list, disseminating information to the media, and tracking news releases and press clips. Following a discussion of publicity techniques and the preparation of news releases, feature areas of promotion are identified. They include forfeiture, grand jury actions, and the introduction of a new U.S. attorney. Sample news releases are provided.