Stop the press: The Reynolds Defence

Entertainment & media

Comment | 14 December 2009

Reynolds v Times Newspapers Ltd & ors [2001] established a new defence for libel claims in which the story is in the public interest and the publisher acted ‘responsibly’. The Reynolds defence is designed to protect serious investigative journalists acting in good faith and reporting on matters of public interest. Even where allegations are false and hugely damaging to the subject of the publication, publishers can make use of this defence. However, Reynolds has also provided a useful tool for subjects to delay, if not prevent, publication of defamatory allegations.

To read the full article, click on the download below:

Written by

Laura Tyler

Laura Tyler
+ View profile

+ View profile

Out of hours emergency

+44 (0)20 7034 9000

Related legal services