The CPU has carried out extensive research and monitored many legal problems faced by journalists across the Commonwealth.

Newspapers who take up legal action to defend themselves often face exorbitant legal fees, and in many cases, this has led many publications into debt or out of business.

The CPU Legal Support Programme was founded by CPU's Executive Director, Lindsay Ross and developed in cooperation with Harvey Kass, Legal Director Associated Newspapers and Mary Russell, Group Legal Advisor of Associated Newspapers, a London-based newspaper group that owns the Daily Mail.

Through the CPU Legal Support Programme, top barristers and solicitors in the UK have volunteered to offer their support and assistance probono.

The Programme was launched in March 2003, and was announced at the CPU Commonwealth Editors' Forum and Biennial Conference held in Sri Lanka in February 2003.



The CPU Legal Support Programme offers assistance and advice on matters of pre publication, libel, human rights and freedom of expression. Please note that the CPU withholds the right to decide if a case will be accepted or declined at our own discretion at any time. All cases are individually considered on a case-by-case basis.



Download Terms and Conditions and Application Form (Microsoft Word) and please carefully read the Terms and Conditions. The CPU will respond within 10 business days to let you know if your case has been accepted at the first stage.

However, if your case is urgent please highlight this on the application form and we will respond as quickly as possible.



Seven groups of top media and human rights lawyers including barristers' chambers and solicitors' partnerships in London, have volunteered to assist with cases on a pro-bono basis.

If you are a qualified barrister or solicitor and would like to become involved please download the Pro Bono Application Form (Microsoft Word).



For further information contact Lindsay Ross at the CPU
Tel: +44 (0)20 7583 7733 Fax: +44 20 7583 6868 Email: cpu@cpu.org.uk

Other resources in this section:
CPU Legal Support Programme | Media Monitoring
News | Self-Regulation Seminars






© 2005 Commowealth Press Union
 
 









Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative

CHRI's mandate is to promote awareness of and adherence to the Harare Principles, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other internationally recognized human rights instruments and declarations made by the Commonwealth Heads of Governments as well as domestic instruments supporting human rights in the Commonwealth.

Click here to visit the CHRI website

The UK Press Complaints Commission is an independent body which deals with complaints from members of the public about the editorial content of newspapers and magazines.

All complaints are investigated under the editors Code of Practice, which binds all national and regional newspapers and magazines. The Code - drawn up by editors themselves - covers the way in which news is gathered and reported.

Visit the PCC website and download the Code of Ethics: www.pcc.org.uk