Definition
The 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.
In Context
- ""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.""