Law of Mass Communications

First Amendment law, libel, privacy, obscenity, contempt, copyright, trademark, the Federal Communications Act; laws affecting advertising, legal publication, and other business activities of the media.
In JL MC 460 Media Law, we engaged in a mock trial by preparing a FIRAC briefing for a chosen side. The assignment required me to apply concepts and cases covered in the course to present a concise and compelling argument. In completing this I gained practical experience in applying legal concepts to real-world scenarios. Through analyzing case law, crafting arguments, and presenting their positions, I developed critical thinking, legal reasoning, and persuasive communication skills essential for navigating media-related legal issues.
In the FOIA Exercise, I learned about accessing public records in Iowa and navigating FERPA regulations. Exploring resources like the Open Government Guide and SPJ materials, I discovered who can request public records, the types of records subject to FOIA, and circumstances for records release. Analyzing SPJ videos and handouts, I identified common reasons for denial of records requests  fee reduction strategies overall enriching my understanding of transparency laws and journalistic practices.
In the annotated bibliography assignment, I examined four court cases, including at least one at the Supreme Court level, focusing on their relevance to the topic of false/deceptive advertising. These cases collectively demonstrate the evolving legal landscape surrounding deceptive advertising practices, providing valuable insights into regulatory frameworks and judicial interpretations, which will inform my final paper's exploration of commercial speech rights and consumer protection.
For my final project in JLMC 460, I delved into the intricate realm of media law, specifically focusing on defamation and the challenges of navigating the actual malice standard in media and celebrity cases. Through meticulous research and analysis, I crafted a detailed narrative that contextualized the historical background of defamation law, explored legal precedents, and anticipated future developments in this complex area of jurisprudence. My paper aimed to provide a nuanced understanding of defamation law's significance in contemporary society, supported by a diverse array of academic and trade sources.