Ethical question

At a paper I used to work at owned by a prominent chain, they had corporate lawyers come through every year or so for what they called ``libel seminars,'' and the first thing they told us every year was to get rid of old notes. Once the story is done, throw them away. That way, you can play the don't remember card if you're ever subpoenaed.

 

Most newspapers I've worked for had either a lawyer on retainer or even in-house. This is what we pay them for.

 

Hold up....

You take notes?

 

Should be a third option: Destroy the notes, and then cooperate and act sympathetic to police.

 

I don't think so. He'd have this down by now.