Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

When I was a juvenile, I was tried as an adult for throwing a rock at a truck on the freeway, causing a crash. I regret my actions and have since matured, but . . . at the time the media filmed me numerous times and that footage (and articles with photographs) were published and aired across the country. Is it legal for the media to film a juvenile in such a case? But remember, I was being tried as an adult.

If it is illegal, can I sue? I just got out of prison, and its 13 years later.


Asked on 12/07/10, 7:52 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert Marshall Law Office of Robert L, Marshall

The media have the right to report on criminal cases, which are open to the public. They cannot take pictures or video without the judge's permission. (Juvenile court proceedings are usually confidential, except under very specific circumstances in serious cases.)

You cannot sue the media for truthfully reporting on public court proceedings.

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Answered on 12/12/10, 8:13 pm
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Mr. Marshall is right, but his comment about needing court permission to take photos or video only applies to proceedings in the courthouse. The media can make and use pictures and video of juvenile defendants elsewhere. Many media outlets don't do so, but that is their own decision and is not required by law.

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Answered on 12/13/10, 3:44 pm


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