The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press (RCFP) provides pro bono legal support and resources to protect First Amendment freedoms and the newsgathering rights of journalists.

Legal Hotline

RCFP operates a free Legal Hotline for journalists and newsrooms to provide assistance with a wide variety of media law and press freedom issues, including routine newsgathering questions and responding to legal threats. During normal business hours (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. ET), it can be reached via online form or via email at hotline@rcfp.org. RCFP’s Legal Hotline also provides 24/7 support at 1-800-336-4243 in case of emergencies, such as arrest or imminent threat of arrest.

Legal guides and resources

RCFP publishes a number of legal guides for reporters that are available free online on a wide variety of topics, including:

• State and federal open government laws;
• Reporting on immigration and deportation;
• Access to court documents and proceedings;
• Vetting investigations for legal risk;
• Understanding anti-SLAPP laws;
• First Amendment handbook, and more.

RCFP offers additional services for journalists and newsrooms, including training, direct legal representation, and amicus curiae support. Learn more about the full scope of RCFP’s work.