Freedom of Speech and Press
The First Amendment provides some of the most basic and fundamental rights guaranteed to people in the United States. Of these fundamental rights, many consider the rights to freedom of speech and press paramount. Both the federal and state governments are prohibited from limiting an individual's rights to expression, whether it is through speech, press, assembly, or association.
Why is Free Speech Important?
The right to free speech is an essential ingredient to any civilized and healthy society. Some of the benefits of free speech include: - Encourages self-governance
- Promotes societal tolerance and self-restraint
- Helps ensure that government officials do not abuse their power
- Helps develop moral virtue
What Rights to Expression Do I Have?
As Americans, we are fortunate to have a guaranteed right to freedom of expression. This right allows us to express ourselves freely, through any medium, without fear of government prosecution or censorship. Under the First Amendment, you can: - Participate in a political protest
- Buy and sell explicit pornography as long as it does not meet the definition of "hardcore obscenity," which includes child pornography
- Write and publish anti-government propaganda
- Burn the American flag as a symbol of protest
Government Censorship
Although the First Amendment grants a right to freedom of speech, not all speech is constitutionally protected. Some forms of speech are unprotected, while others receive limited or conditional protection. These types of speech are denied full protection because the Supreme Court has determined that the intrinsic value of such speech is nominal. The following categories of speech are constitutionally unprotected: - Speech that tends to incite immediate lawlessness
- Obscenity and Pornography in particular circumstances
- Fighting Words in limited circumstances
- Offensive speech in limited circumstances
Should I Consult with a Attorney Experienced in Freedom of Speech and the Press?
If you feel that your constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of speech or the press have been compromised, you should contact a constitutional law attorney. Speaking with the proper lawyer experienced in your constitutional protections will inform you of your rights as well as preserve any possible legal remedies you may have. Vea esta página en español: Libertad de Habla y Prensa o visita Abogados-Leyes.com para más información legal. |
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