Newsgathering Conduct and Ethics Guides
How to conduct yourself while gathering news: at protests, with sources, and under pressure. Each guide links to the codes, courts or legal groups it relies on.
- Ambush Interview and Doorstepping: Legal and Ethical Lines
What the law and ethics codes say about ambush interviews and doorstepping: trespass, recording rules, harassment, and steps to take before you knock.
Last reviewed:
- Can Journalists Follow Public Figures? Public vs Private
You can usually photograph public figures in public places. Following them is another matter. Learn where courts and state laws draw the line.
Last reviewed:
- Defamation Basics for Journalists: Actual Malice Explained
Learn how libel works, what actual malice means, why an opinion label is no shield, and which checks to run before you publish as an independent journalist.
Last reviewed:
- Intrusion Upon Seclusion: Privacy Torts for Journalists
How intrusion upon seclusion works for journalists: what courts require, where reporters get into trouble, and when to call a media lawyer.
Last reviewed:
- Journalist Harassment vs Newsgathering: Stalking Laws
Stalking and harassment laws can reach reporters. Learn what they require, what Cohen and Counterman say, and how to document a legitimate purpose.
Last reviewed:
- Protect Confidential Sources: Shield Laws for Journalists
Learn how shield laws and reporter's privilege protect confidential sources, where they fall short for freelancers, and the digital security basics to use.
Last reviewed:
- SPJ Code of Ethics for Independent Journalists
What the SPJ Code of Ethics says, how its October 2026 revision applies to independent journalists, and why it is voluntary and not legally enforceable.
Last reviewed:
- Trespass and Newsgathering: Rules for Journalists
How trespass law applies to independent journalists: consent, posted signs, open businesses, deception, police and when to call a lawyer.
Last reviewed:
All guides for independent journalists
NPA membership is separate from any credential an agency issues
The National Press Association credential is a private association credential. It is not government-issued, it does not give you legal rights, and it does not guarantee access to any event, venue, or agency. It can serve as identity verification and supporting documentation alongside your published work. It is free to apply.