At Media Access our staff advise clients how to deal with the excesses of the media and how to prepare a response to mitigate any potentially damaging situation, or reduce the impacts of any information in possession of the media, even if it means making an off the record disclosure to one specific media outlet to counter any information already in possession of journalists. A news story can gather momentum because of unguarded disclosures or hastily contrived responses to journalists’ enquiries. In the first instance, there is only one way to deal with the situation; say nothing, seek immediate professional advice and then instruct a spokesperson to handle any disclosure or orchestrate a response. Lawyers should not be the first option.

Media intrusion is a natural consequence of journalism and press scrutiny. Journalists from different news organisations (the pack) trade information with each other. Media confrontation can prove intimidating, even for those used to dealing with the press. If a story has escalated to the mainstream media, it will result in seemingly unwarranted press attention from a variety of sources and will be accompanied by various offers, threats or alternatively, requests for exclusive interviews. It is often the case the offers will be incentivised by promises of payment, which, latterly, fail to materialise.

If you are concerned about media intrusion, even at the basic level, as a matter of urgency, we would recommend you speak with a member of staff, rather than making initial contact by email. Your call will not be recorded and you can speak in confidence;

Excellence and Integrity are our lowest standards.

You can contact us 24/7 on +44 (0)1206 711077.