how does a gag order protect a case?

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I’ve been trying to understand the reasoning behind a judge issuing a gag order. I’ve read that they can protect the integrity of a case and protect the defendant’s rights to a fair trial. I think it makes sense that a judge wouldn’t want potential jury members to know things before a trial, but is that the only reason? (Not saying that’s not an important reason.) And is it an issue that potential jury members might see information on media sights from sources not involved in the case? I’m assuming a gag order couldn’t prevent that. Thank you for any info!

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2 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

It is the first obvious thing, but it can also help with the person standing trial not to have their life destroyed because of an accusation that they may be acquitted of, or protect key witnesses or victims from persecution in high profile cases.

A great example would be how Monica Lewinsky was labeled horribly, had her life almost ruined entirely, nearly unalived herself from the persecution, whem the whole Bill Clinton scandal came up. Now, that wasn’t a criminal trial, and it most definitely didn’t have a gag order, but it shows you how people can get persecuted in these instances.

Anonymous 0 Comments

You remember a few months ago when the Depp and Heard trial was dominating headlines for like 2 weeks straight?

You issue a gag order to prevent that type of media fiasco from happening essentially, as that can be unfair for the people involved.