From the Hotline

By Teri Henning, General Counsel
Pennsylvania Newspaper Association

Q: What number should I call with a Legal Hotline question and on what topics can the PNA lawyers provide assistance?

A: The main hotline number is (717) 703-3080. In an effort to serve our members better, the PNA now has two lawyers available to handle hotline questions.

Melissa Melewsky is the PNA’s media law counsel. She is in the office Monday through Thursday each week, and her direct contact information is (717) 703-3048 (office) and (717) 319-9816 (cell).

Teri Henning is the PNA’s general counsel. She can be reached directly at (717) 703-3076 (office) and (717) 649-6498 (cell).

Each year, the Hotline lawyers handle over 2,000 calls on a wide range of topics, including the following:

1. Access to public records and meetings
2. Police issues
3. Juvenile issues
4. Access to court records and proceedings
5. Defamation and invasion of privacy issues
6. Advertising
7. Legislative issues
8. Local government issues
9. Newsgathering issues
10. Subpoena and shield law issues
11. Independent contractors
12. Telemarketing
13. Business practice issues
14. Newsracks
15. Newspaper contests
16. Circulation issues

This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. If you have a question about something not appearing on this list, please feel free to call.

The PNA lawyers are also available to provide training at your newspaper on the above topics. They will also write letters to local or state agencies on your behalf, urging the release of public records or compliance with the Sunshine Act (open meetings law). Finally, they file amicus briefs in cases significant to Pennsylvania newspapers. If you have any questions about our services, please call.

Please try the main hotline number first, (717) 703-3080, with any questions or concerns. As always, feel free to try Melissa’s or Teri’s direct contact numbers if you don’t reach anyone on the hotline and need to speak to someone right away.

Use this link to the Headlines & Deadlines archive of Teri Henning's weekly 'From the Hotline' columns. 

[HOTLINE ARCHIVE]