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Topic: News won't list my name as author. Is this legal?

SES - 6/11/2008 5:15:16 PM
I just covered a huge state convention for a religious organization. They hired me to cover every mtg from 9 am to 9 pm. The stories I wrote were published but instead of my name as author, they wrote "by staff writer."

Any ideas on my rights here? Every other story I've done for them for over 2 years has been attributed to me until now.

Must a news organization recognize the author of an article?

6/17/2008 12:09:13 PM - Valerie Allen
It sounds like they just made a mistake - in a hurry, couldn't remember who did the story, etc.

However, they do not have to publish the writer's name, unless it is specifically stated that they will do so in your contact with them.
Often, in these situations there is no formal contract, just a verbal agreement regarding the assignment.

You can contact them and ask about it, but if you want more work from them, be nice and don't allow your frustration to interfer with opportunities for future assignments.

9/20/2008 12:37:58 PM - Athena Sasso
Unless you are a member of their staff and receive a regular paycheck from them, you are not a "staff writer." If you are a "staff writer," did your name appear anywhere in the masthead? Seems it should have appeared there if not on the story. Contract?