trial by media

plural trials by media

1. idiomaticThe process by which media coverage affects a person's reputation by creating a widespread perception of guilt or innocence, often before, or after, a verdict in a court of law.

   1 more example

   "Next up is a suit for procedural malfeasance, including false arrest, dereliction of duty, excessive force, and incompetence. I like to think of it as the 'impersonating a police force' suit. It'll play well on the news." "You threaten our clients with trial by media?" "Why yes, yes I do. And we're willing to settle out of court on this one. All you need to do is drop all charges against our lieutenant commander."

   2005 November 6, Howard Tayler, Schlock Mercenary, archived from the original on 27 Jan 2024