The press are asking questions. What should I do?

• The safest thing to do is to say 'no comment'. This may seem rude or strange if a journalist seems sympathetic; however it is important to remember that journalists are simply after a story and you have no obligation toward them, nor they toward you.
   
• Ask your lawyer’s opinion before you speak to any journalist. If a charity is supporting you, ask them. Discuss whether s/he believes that media coverage will be helpful or harmful to your case, and how s/he intends to respond to any media queries that arise. If you prefer that your lawyer not make any comments to media, make that clear to him/her.
   
• Do not be pushed into making any comments before seeking your lawyer's advice; until you have your lawyer's consent you should say 'no comment'.
   
• Make sure your family and friends also respond to the media with 'no comment'.

This is not a substitute for legal advice and, because every case is different and legal systems around the world vary so much, we cannot guarantee that the answers will be applicable to your own case. For advice about your own situation, you should talk to a lawyer qualified in the jurisdiction where you are being prosecuted.

The information contained in this document is provided for information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice, nor does it constitute legal advice. Whilst we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, Fair Trials International makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or applicability to individual cases of the information contained in this leaflet. Any reliance you place on such material is therefore strictly at your own risk. Fair Trials International disclaims any liability to the fullest extent permissible by law for any loss or damage of any kind arising from the use of the information provided. 

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