Keywords

pre trial publicity; law; due process; constitutional law; attorney; criminal defense

Abstract

This research examined how pretrial publicity, like statements made by law enforcement and prosecutors, affects criminal defense strategy. Using a qualitative, phenomenological design, interviews were held with practicing defense attorneys to understand how they deal with media coverage, protect their clients’ rights, and adjust their strategy when a case starts getting attention. The project identifies common themes, including attorney concerns about biased jurors, distorted narratives, and pressure created by public commentary. Findings work towards reforming policy discussions to respect free speech while protecting the constitutional right to an impartial jury in our modern media environment.

Thesis Completion Year

2026

Thesis Completion Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair

Lisa Nored

College

College of Community Innovation and Education

Department

Legal Studies

Thesis Discipline

Law

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Campus Location

UCF Downtown

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Included in

Criminal Law Commons

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Accessibility Statement

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Rights Statement

In Copyright