Media Access to Videotape Evidence in Criminal Trials

Authors

Geoffrey Robinson

Abstract

A peripheral but hotly contested issue in the Abscam trials was whether the media could copy and broadcast the videotapes entered into evidence. This issue requires balancing of the defendant's fair trial rights against interests closely analogous to those protected by the First Amendment. This note suggests the lines upon which analysis of the conflicting interests should run, and argues for a strong presumption in favor of access.

Recommended Citation

Geoffrey Robinson, Media Access to Videotape Evidence in Criminal Trials, 4 UC Law SF Comm. & Ent. L.J. 445 (1982).
Available at: https://repository.uclawsf.edu/hastings_comm_ent_law_journal/vol4/iss3/4