Utah reporters now protected by shield rule
According to Jeff Hunt, Utah media attorney, the Utah Supreme Court approved a shield rule for reporters yesterday that promises to offer Utah journalists some of the strongest protection from subpoenas in the nation. The rule creates a near-absolute privilege for confidential sources. A journalist can only be compelled to divulge such a source only in cases where it would "prevent substantial injury or death." The rule also protects documents, applying the balancing test used in federal and state courts for the past 20 years.
Thanks go to Jeff Hunt and Mike O'Brien, as well as the Utah SPJ Chapter for their tireless work to get this important rule enacted. And thanks to everyone who posted supportive comments on the court's Web site during the comment period.