We often discuss the need for preparation and research for any story. The same is true when you cover a trial. Preparation can save you, and/or add nice details to help put your readers inside the story, as you report and write. You also may discover a story or two while simply looking around.
I did this yesterday. Here's a look at what I did and why:
Introduced myself to Jason Frazier, the logistical liaison between the court and media. We have emailed and texted, so I wanted to introduce myself in person. Frazier showed me into the courtroom and discussed media protocol. He showed me where the camera is placed, where Court TV personnel will sit to broadcast the trial live and also showed me the media room — which is where other broadcast outlets will plug into the video feed in order to broadcast, as this is a pool situation.
I sketched out the layout of the courtroom and took photos so I know where people will sit and where the jury and alternate jurors will be. I counted chairs for capacity. I noted that the prosecution's table and their reserved seats (for family) are near to the juror box as well as the alternates. Kind of interesting and I will likely ask a jury expert for a story if this is a strategic move; not likely a full story, but that piece of information may find its way into a story on an uneventful in-court day. Maybe. In this case, the courtroom is the backdrop to the case and knowing certain details about it can help when you write to paint a word picture for your reader. In this case, there are busts that flank the judge's bench and a huge painting behind the bench that piqued my curiosity and I plan to do more reporting to tuck away for future use.
Introduced myself to the court clerks, who have been and are incredible resources —especially for me as I have to get court records emailed to me when I am not in Ohio. Court clerks are invaluable resources not just during trials, but when you need to find files or need help understanding something in the courts. I also pulled several older files to continue my research into the Rhoden and Wagners (more on that later).
PRO TIPS:
Don't be a jerk. Please and thank you — and waiting while court clerks and others are working — go a LONG way in source development. Trust me: Everything your parents taught you about treating people kindly pays off in this job.
Get people's names, jot them down so you remember them. Talk to folks using their name. And trust me: You will need a court clerk time and time again.
Phone and laptop: As I have noted in a previous post, Judge Randy Deering is not allowing any phones or laptops in the courtroom. So, I needed to determine where and how to store my devices. There is no good place to keep my laptop or phone in the courthouse. Nothing is secure. So both will likely stay in my car. Not ideal, but the Civil-War era courthouse is not equipped for modern-day needs.
Parking will be an issue. I noted that the parking lot/s around the courthouse are fenced. I can not park there and it appears the parking in front of the courthouse will be restricted. I will have to park a couple blocks away. This is important as it determines how early I need to get to the courthouse each morning and how long my walk will be in order to Tweet news or write on deadline.
Question for students:
How might you use tips here to inform your reporting in this class, specifically when you cover a speech or a press conference?
What questions do you have?
1: In the past I haven’t gone to locations in advance to make sure I am able to paint a full picture of what the area is like but going forward, when possible, I think this would be a great way to not only get comfortable in the space but also get to know the people that work at the venue more personally. That would also give them an idea of who I am beforehand which may help in getting more information.
I would definitely look back at previous speeches and press conferences that we have looked at in class. I would also look around the room and see who is there. Picture myself in the room and think about if I was the one speaking, how would I answer the questions that are being asked. Jointing down notes that I think are important to know. Recording what is going on just incase forget something. See if they are cameras or any media outlets that are in the room.
What happens if someone isn't there that needs to be in attendance? Do you think about what happens after you leave the room and the media starts asking you questions?
1. I will apply the advice you gave when I ultimately cover a press conference or meeting since it is incredibly beneficial. Knowing the expectations of what you are discussing and the underlying knowledge is, in my opinion, a very significant advice. Knowing the guidelines for media coverage in the courtroom, as well as what you are permitted to have and do, is crucial in this situation. Additionally, background knowledge is crucial; if you don't know anything about this case, you have no business reporting on it. Spend some time learning about the case, the parties involved, and the underlying motivation.
2. What precautions are you taking in order to follow laws, ethics, and general mannerisms to ensure the most…
1. How might you use tips here to inform your reporting in this class, specifically when you cover a speech or a press conference?
I like the concept of sketching out a room. I'm a very visual person so it would probably help me recall details when writing. Also, the size and layout of a room and who's in it can affect how people interact with each other. Making notes of where people are/move could be interesting to note as well. After reading and speaking in class this week, I became a little more confident in my ability to ask others for documents/assistance. If I'm respectful and understanding of their commitments as well, I can create good relationships and ge…
1. How might you use tips here to inform your reporting in this class, specifically when you cover a speech or a press conference?
- Knowing the layout of where you're reporting an event can help you know the best spot for you to be to reach and/or see multiple things happenings. Taking count of things you find interesting for extra bits of information, or to look into later is also helpful to yourself for the future. Specifically for speeches and more, this is good because your vantage point can affect how you're watching the speech. If you can hear everything, if you can gauge the crowds reaction, who you meet, and more.
2. Other questions?
- What else makes…