CLINTON ST. QUARTERLY ( newspaper got its story, the Attorney General got a successful prosecution, the “ wronged consumers” were appointed restitution by the court. . . and I got a persistent headache. Over a 12 month period, I had lost time and wages sorting my way through subpoenas and depositions. Now, after being paid just $200 for the story, I was obligated to pay conceivably thousands of dollars in legal fees to defend myself against groundless charges. I felt bewildered, exploited, and abandoned. Aftermath God may watch over the pure in heart, but few others do, 1regrettably perceived. I contacted the ACLU. They were no help. I talked to Legal Aid. They were unable to assist, “ having no expertise in such matters.” So, with only a few hundred dollars to live on, and a seething heart, I went shopping for a lawyer. I did spend money on legal advice. But eventually I found an attorney who generously offered to represent me for free. This attorney had read the articles, listened to my tale of woe, and committed himself to a potentially lengthy legal struggle on my behalf. For his kind and timely support, I remain eternally grateful. Having gained legal representation, my anxiety slackened. 1knew my articles were solid. I had nothing to fear. A wiser man, but sadder, I have emerged from the whole experience a more cautious journalist. I remain concerned about vulnerabilities inherent in news gathering, especially for freelance writers. However unfair or unsuccessful, a legal suit is punitive when a writer can be mauled to death in legal procedures and wiped out in legal fees. These are hardly incentives to accept challenging investigative assignments. I would hope that most newspapers stand behind their writers, freelance or otherwise, when the game gets rough. But I know now not to expect it. I also know I will not proceed with a story of this nature again without some form of libel/slander insurance coverage. And maybe a gun. Somewhere along the way, the lawsuit against me was dropped. Somewhere along the way, I began an alternative career. I play rock-and-roll music. Now 1’1 probably get sued for driving the neighbors crazy. At least I’ll know who my friends are. ■ Northern Chinese Cuisine featuring 235-6529 2016 N.E. Sandy Blvd. 211 S.W. Ankeny, Portland, Oregon 97204 222-5733 Home Style Pot Roast Evening Hours NOW SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER ♦ recorders es ♦ whistles ny varieties folk musics. hammered flutes ♦ gui piccolos ♦ u books and ARTICHOKE MUSIC 11-6 • monday-saturday • 722 northwest 21st • 248-0356 17
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