Case Study:

As part of my Public Relations Master’s program, I was tasked with creating a podcast episode that explores key legal issues surrounding social media. The goal was to demonstrate an understanding of copyright laws, libel, and privacy concerns while also providing practical strategies for avoiding liability. The result? Prima Facie—a short-form, engaging podcast designed to make legal concepts more digestible for communications professionals and social media users alike.

The Assignment:
The objective was to craft a 3–4 minute podcast episode that breaks down legal risks when posting on social media. The episode had to include:

• An introduction that sets the tone and purpose of the podcast.

• An analysis of copyright law, including fair use and best practices.

• A discussion of two other key legal risks—libel and invasion of privacy.

• Actionable strategies for avoiding legal pitfalls when posting online.

• A conversational, engaging style suitable for a podcast format.

The Approach:
Rather than delivering a dry, textbook-style breakdown of social media law, I infused Prima Facie with personality, wit, and real-world examples. I framed legal risks in a way that was easy to understand while maintaining a professional, collegiate tone. The episode opens with an engaging hook about social media’s popularity before transitioning into a structured discussion of legal concepts, complete with references to key legislation, case law, and best practices.

Key Takeaways:

• Copyright is serious business – Just because content is online doesn’t mean it’s free to use. Always credit sources and get permission when necessary.

• Libel isn’t just for journalists – Posting false information that harms someone’s reputation can lead to legal trouble, even on personal social media accounts.

• Privacy laws matter – Sharing sensitive details about others without consent can lead to legal consequences, even if the information is true.

• Play it safe – Fact-check, respect privacy, and use social media policies to stay compliant.

The Outcome:
This project was an excellent exercise in blending legal literacy with digital communication strategies. Through Prima Facie, I showcased my ability to distill complex legal concepts into an engaging, accessible format—an essential skill in PR, branding, and digital content creation.

Listen to the Episode:
I’m excited to share the full episode of Prima Facie here on my portfolio. Click below to listen and learn how to stay legally savvy on social media!

Final Thoughts:
This assignment reinforced the importance of understanding media law in today’s digital landscape. Whether you’re a content creator, PR professional, or casual social media user, knowing your legal rights (and limits) can help you avoid costly mistakes.

Want to collaborate on a media project or podcast? Let’s connect!