Cofeebreak – They Say… (10/11/07)

On this morning’s Coffeebreak:
Rick’s guest this morning was Doug Miller, of the law offices of Swinford and Sims. Discussion involved questions concerning what media can and cannot say, with regard of what can be viewed as protected under the rights of free speech, and where “free speech” may become malicious or slanderous. One example noted by Mr. Miller was the case Jerry Falwell had brought against Larry Flynt, in response to a parody published in Hustler Magazine.
Discussion then went to what freedoms an official can say, referencing the current political ads in Kentucky’s gubernatorial race involving current Governor Ernie Fletcher and rival Steve Beshear. In relation to this topic, Mr. Miller expressed his opinion that it is “sad that we are selling our candidates in thirty second, one minute, or two minute spots in the same way that we sell soap.” Mr. Miller went further to say that he wished that there could be a bit of restraint placed on the ads, where they could be limited to actually having the candidates physically present and speaking throughout their ads, rather than having an ad agency piecing together commercials for them.
Rick then asked for a bit of clarification of what “off the record” means when one speaks to another. Mr. Miller explained that statements made between people “off the record” are more of a trust where the one expects the other to not repeat a certain bit of information, with the understanding that should the story be repeated there will be denial. Mr. Miller further explained that these statements may not be able to be kept quiet in a court of law.
The final question asked involved defining a “speedy trial.” Mr. Miller explained that a speedy trial is where a defendant is guaranteed that proceedings shall take place within a reasonable amount of time of their detainment, claim, etc. The time frame for a “speedy trial” is at the discretion of the court, and can extend however long the court sees fit. There are, however, among certain courts an unpublished “rule of thumb” time-frame. Mr. Miller also stated that, for the most part, the rights to a speedy trial are waived, where the defense may wish to have as much time possible to build and defend the case.

At the opening of this morning’s program, Rick announced that during a conversation with Roger Slade, Roger had mentioned that all available slots for this weekends’ Ghost Walking Tour had been filled. Rick also announced that Roger may appear on tomorrows program via telephone to speak on the tour.

This morning’s sponsors were:
Harrison County Board of Education, Jetubs, Cockrell’s Auto Center, BluegrassTradingPost.com, Whalen & Company, Eastside Pharmacy, Bourbon Community Hospital, Chase Jewelers, and Joe Cochran – local State Farm Insurance representative.