Policies

Republication policy | Editorial independence policy | Code of ethics

Republication policy

We welcome and encourage other news organizations to republish our reporting on the Cook County court system. Unless otherwise noted, all our work is available for republishing under the following conditions:

  • Contact editor@injusticewatch.org to let us know that you are republishing our work.
  • Do not change the story or the headline, except for house style or to reflect changes in time or location (e.g., “yesterday” can be changed to “last week”, or “Springfield, Illinois, can be changed to “Springfield” or “here”).
  • Stories must include the byline of the reporter(s), including any publishing partners. We prefer the format: “By Reporter Name, Injustice Watch.”
  • Include this language and links at the top of the story: “This story was produced by Injustice Watch, a nonprofit newsroom in Chicago that investigates issues of equity and justice in the Cook County court system. Sign up here to get their weekly newsletter.”
  • Copy the HTML using this “republication tool,” including the Google Analytics 4 tracking information.
  • You cannot republish our photographs or illustrations without specific permission. Email editor@injusticewatch.org to request permission.
  • If you use canonical metadata, use the Injustice Watch URL as the canonical link.
  • If you share the story on social media, you must tag us in it. We have accounts on Twitter/X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Reddit.
  • You may include our content on webpages with ads, but you cannot sell ads specifically against our content. If you’re a nonprofit, you can’t state or imply that donations to your organization support Injustice Watch’s work.
  • You can’t republish our work wholesale or automatically. You must select stories to publish individually.
  • You can’t sell our material separately or syndicate it. This includes publishing or syndicating our work on platforms or apps, such as Apple News, Google News, etc.
  • If we send you a request to remove our content from your website, you must agree to do so immediately.
  • Please note, we will not provide indemnification if you are located or publishing outside the United States, but you may contact us to obtain a license and indemnification on a case-by-case basis.

If you have any other questions, please contact us at editor@injusticewatch.org.

Editorial independence policy

We retain full authority over our editorial content.

We maintain a firewall between news coverage decisions and sources of revenue. We accept gifts, grants, and sponsorships from individuals and organizations for the general support of our activities, but our news decisions are made independently and not on the basis of donor support. We may also accept donations to support the coverage of particular topics, but we maintain editorial control of the coverage. We will cede no right of review or influence of editorial content to donors, foundations, corporate sponsors, or board members. Acceptance of financial support does not constitute implied or actual endorsement of donors or their products, services, or opinions.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we are exempt from certain taxes. We do not endorse political candidates or lobby for specific public policies, aside from advocating for First Amendment rights, government transparency, public access to public records, or freedom of the press. We may receive funds from standard government programs offered to nonprofits or similar businesses. We make public all donors who give a total of $5,000 or more.

Code of ethics

Injustice Watch expects all its employees and representatives, especially our journalists, to uphold the highest standards of ethics, fairness, and honesty. The success of our work depends on our integrity and the trust our sources, audience, and supporters place in us.

Much of the language below is borrowed from other news organizations’ ethics codes, specifically ProPublica and Reveal, as well as the Society of Professional Journalists.

These guidelines should be the framework for ongoing discussions about how we do our work and carry ourselves as journalists. When in doubt about any ethical question, ask your supervisor or the executive director.

How we do our work

Our journalism must be fair, accurate, thorough, and complete. That means following these guidelines in our newsgathering, writing, editing, publication, and promotion of our work.

Anonymous sources

The use of anonymous sources should be rare and used only when no other options are available. When dealing with sources, always question motives before promising anonymity. Avoid using anonymous sources to express unsupported ad hominem attacks about an individual or organization.

We will, when necessary, provide anonymity to sources when identifying them could cause them harm and when we aren’t able to get the same information from an on-the-record source. When a source is central to the story and is quoted repeatedly, you can use a pseudonym (or, preferably, just a first name or real initials). Otherwise, write it in a way that explains their relationship to the topic without stating their name. (Example: “… according to a defense lawyer, who requested anonymity because he still represents clients before Burns.”) We will always explain to the reader why someone is being granted anonymity.

We don’t publish anonymous quotes from spokespeople or people whose job is to provide information to reporters and the public. We generally don’t provide anonymity to officials or people in power, unless they are sharing information that could lead to real harm or repercussions against them (e.g., a public official speaking about a supervisor’s misconduct). The reporter and at least one editor must know the identity of anyone being granted anonymity.

Challenges to facts

We take all challenges to the integrity of our reporting seriously. If reporters become aware of disputed facts before publication, they should inform their editor as soon as possible. Challenges to published facts should be brought to the attention of the story editor immediately. If legal counsel representing a subject of a story contacts anyone at Injustice Watch, you should notify the editorial director and the executive director immediately.

When challenges to our facts or retraction demands are received, it’s prudent to refrain from any direct interaction with sources or attorneys representing the aggrieved parties. Instead, editors will work with reporters to prepare a written response to any points raised. This written response is for internal purposes only and will be used to help editors and/or our legal counsel prepare a formal response if warranted. These communications should always be emailed or shared in Google Docs or other electronic format with inclusion of “ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGE” in the header and Injustice Watch counsel on the cc.

Corrections

All errors of fact should be corrected as quickly as possible, and a correction note should be added to the bottom of the story in italics. As soon as an error is identified, notify the story’s primary editor. Avoid repeating the error in the correction unless it’s necessary for clarity.

If an error has been repeated in our social copy or if the error drastically changes the nature or the scope of the story, the primary editor should notify the audience team, so a correction can be made on social media.

Typos, grammatical errors, or inconsequential misspellings can be fixed without issuing a correction. Clarifications do not require a written correction or an update if they do not change the substance of the story.

Crediting other media

Any information taken from other published or broadcast sources should receive credit within the body of the story. Reporters should be aware of previously published work on the same subject and give those news organizations credit if they have broken new ground or published exclusive material before us.

Fairness

All sources will be treated with courtesy and respect in the newsgathering process. Injustice Watch staff and representatives will act professionally at all times in dealing with sources, even hostile and uncooperative ones. Subjects of our stories should have many opportunities to respond to our findings and facts. Whenever practical, multiple attempts should be made to contact anyone named in our stories, particularly those cast in a negative light, and those attempts should begin as early as possible in the reporting process. If we don’t reach the parties involved, we should explain in the story what efforts were made to do so. We should do our best to make sure people are not surprised by what we write about them.

Whenever we publish data, we should make diligent efforts to verify and validate the integrity of the dataset and explain how to correct any inaccuracies.

No story is fair if it omits facts of major importance or significance. Fairness includes completeness.

No story is fair if it misleads or deceives the reader. Fairness includes honesty — leveling with the reader.

Minimize harm

As outlined by the Society of Professional Journalists, reporters should strive to minimize harm. Show compassion for those who may be affected adversely by news coverage. Use special sensitivity when dealing with children, inexperienced sources or subjects, or people who are experiencing tragedy or grief. Recognize that gathering and reporting information may cause harm or discomfort. Pursuit of the news is not a license for arrogance. Recognize that private people have a greater right to control information about themselves than do public officials and others who seek power, influence, or attention. Only an overriding public need can justify intrusion into anyone’s privacy. Show good taste. Avoid pandering to lurid curiosity.

Identification of a minor in any story should be cleared with the editorial director. In quoting minors, we should ensure we have obtained consent of a parent, guardian, or trusted caretaker when possible, and that minor subjects are fully aware of the ramifications of speaking on the record in the media.

Misrepresentation

Under no circumstances will Injustice Watch reporters, freelancers, or contractors mislead sources, lie, cheat, steal, or engage in any other immoral, unethical, or illegal behavior in pursuit of a story. We expect our staff to exercise sound judgment at all times. We identify ourselves upfront as journalists with Injustice Watch. We do not use hidden cameras or microphones, go undercover, or engage in any other newsgathering tactic that might be construed as misleading without first discussing the ramifications and consequences with editors and our legal counsel. The editorial director must sign off on any unconventional reporting methods and approaches.

Plagiarism

Under no circumstances will Injustice Watch journalists steal material from other sources. All outside work must be properly credited and clearly noted. We will not publish copy generated by artificial intelligence for our stories. Plagiarism is a serious offense, and violators will be subject to discipline up to and including termination.

While you are gathering information, make sure to carefully note your sources, and if you copy something verbatim into your story, make sure to put it in quotation marks and properly attribute the source. If you paraphrase, even as you rewrite it into your own voice, lean toward attribution. Don’t copy or cut and paste information, including text, pictures, and graphics, from websites and press releases into your report. Take care when using information from our archives.

Nothing in our work should be fabricated. We don’t use composite characters or fictional ages, places, or dates in our stories. Readers must be confident we are not making anything up. Fabrication is a serious offense, and violators will be subject to discipline up to and including termination. We don’t create details that we did not observe or verify from a source who was in a position to know.

Public appearances and interviews

Injustice Watch reporters are encouraged to participate in panels, public events, and interviews about their work or to moderate conversations about issues we cover. However, you should get approval from your direct supervisor before agreeing to participate in a public event or be interviewed by another media organization. We will not participate in partisan events or fundraisers. Carefully consider the venue and sponsor of any event before agreeing to participate, and ensure your appearance there won’t compromise our ability to be seen as fair. Before participating, ensure the organizers understand you are there to discuss your work and not to take sides or express opinions. Remember anything you say publicly about your work can be used to show evidence of bias in the event of litigation. Don’t undermine a well-reported and vetted story by speaking flippantly about it in public.

Transparency

We never overreach in our storytelling. When appropriate, we should not hesitate to disclose what we don’t know about a specific story we’re reporting. When facing difficult choices, you should attempt to make your decision-making process clear to the public. We disclose any relationships with partners or funders that might appear to influence our coverage. Whenever practical, we strive to explain to readers and our audience the process of building our stories and provide raw data and documentation for public consumption.

Finances and conflicts of interest

Conflicts of interest

Injustice Watch journalists should not work on stories, projects, or initiatives with which they have a vested or financial interest. When uncertain, use an abundance of caution in these matters. Even a perceived conflict could damage our credibility. Consult your editor or supervisor if you’re unsure.

This policy extends to the involvement and activities of a business partner, spouse, or domestic partner. If you believe a conflict may exist, you should disclose it immediately to your supervisor. If there are any changes in the status that may determine the conflict or potential conflict, please notify your supervisor or editor.

Donors and funders

We will not shy away from stories we deem newsworthy. Donors, foundations, and board members understand they are not entitled to preferential treatment, and their financial support does not protect them from journalistic scrutiny. In the name of transparency, when we produce stories that involve Injustice Watch donors or board members, we will always disclose the relationship. When these situations arise, reporters should notify their editor. The development team should also be proactive about identifying these situations and notifying a story editor when needed.

Employees should use common sense when engaging in a dialogue with our funders, foundations, and major donors. This is especially true for editorial staff, for whom it is important to maintain a firewall. If contacted directly by a funder or major donor, notify the director of development and operations and your direct supervisor.

Gifts and services

Injustice Watch employees should not offer or provide to current or prospective sources, donors, or prospective donors, or vendors or prospective vendors, directly or indirectly, any gift, entertainment, or reimbursement of expenses of more than nominal value or that exceeds customary courtesies for that time and place. Nor should employees offer or provide, directly or indirectly, any material, equipment, or services to any individual in a position to make or influence any business, philanthropic, or governmental decision affecting Injustice Watch.

Conversely, Injustice Watch employees should not solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any payment, loan, services, equipment, or any other benefit or thing of value, or any gift, entertainment, or reimbursement of expenses of more than nominal value or that exceeds customary courtesies for that time and place from suppliers or vendors, or from any company, individual, or institution that furnishes or seeks to furnish news, information, material, equipment, supplies, or services to Injustice Watch, or from anyone else with an actual or prospective business relationship with Injustice Watch. This does not apply to accepting publishers’ galleys of upcoming books relating to our coverage areas. Allowing a source to buy you a cup of coffee is OK; an expensive dinner is not OK. We neither seek nor accept preferential treatment that might be rendered because of the positions we have.

We do not typically accept free travel or accommodation, except from journalism-related or adjacent organizations for the purposes of attending conferences or other training (i.e., as part of a fellowship where travel and lodging are included). We also will not use freelance pieces for which the author accepted special consideration, as in a junket.

No employee will use their position to seek or accept tickets or passes — no matter the face value — made available in advance of general public sales, at a reduced price or free. We do not allow Injustice Watch employees to use their positions to personal advantage. No employee will seek or accept free admission offered to amusement parks, sporting events, or other activities from the organizations, their representatives, or any outside sources that we cover. This does not preclude us from accepting tickets or gifts passed on by friends who are not news sources.

Secondary employment

Avoid secondary employment that could compromise journalistic integrity. Teaching journalism courses or other employment related to the field is allowed. Journalists should avoid direct investments in companies or industries they regularly cover. Any secondary employment by an employee must be cleared first with your supervisor and the executive director and must not detract from your Injustice Watch work.

Injustice Watch employees may not serve as directors or officers of any company devoted to profit-making, with the following exceptions:

  • Companies that are owned by an employee’s family, where the employee has obtained the written consent of the executive director.
  • Otherwise as approved in writing by the executive director.

Noncompetitive freelance work or side projects are acceptable, as long they do not conflict with our mission and our work. However, run these opportunities by your direct supervisor before discussing, pitching, or accepting any outside assignments or agreeing to any outside commitments. If approval is granted, these stories must be produced outside work on your  time.

Public life and political activity

All editorial employees should refrain from making political contributions or participating in partisan electoral politics — including signing candidate petitions, hosting or attending political fundraisers, displaying lawn signs, wearing campaign paraphernalia, or displaying any other form of political partisanship. Employees are allowed to vote in partisan primaries.

All employees may participate in issue-oriented activities, such as expressing support for human rights or denouncing discrimination because of a person’s race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation. For example, marching in a Pride parade or Black Lives Matter protest is acceptable. Going to a rally in support of a political candidate is not. Be mindful, though, events can take on a partisan tone, and participation should not be inconsistent with this code.

Editorial personnel should avoid any actions that could make a reasonable reader doubt their ability to report fairly on the subjects of their coverage. This includes participating in groups or activities that advocate for a specific policy or political solution in the employee’s coverage area.

It is not the intention of Injustice Watch to dissuade employees from participating actively in or donating to civic, charitable, religious, public, social, or residential organizations. Such activities are permitted, and even encouraged, to the extent they:

  • Do not detract from performance or effectiveness at work.
  • Are, in the case of board memberships, disclosed to an employee’s direct supervisor.
  • Do not, by their extensiveness, cause Injustice Watch to subsidize or appear to subsidize the activity.
  • Do not otherwise violate this code. In the event that a conflict arises or may arise between an outside organization with which an employee is affiliated and the interests of Injustice Watch, the employee should refrain from participating in the conflicting or potentially conflicting activity.

In an era of growing politicization and increased scrutiny of journalists — not only of their work but also their social media activity and participation in civic life — it is more important than ever to consider the repercussions of actions in the public arena. Injustice Watch employees are custodians of Injustice Watch’s reputation, and we have a duty to one another to prioritize that concern. While that means an editorial employee does not have as much freedom to take part in certain groups or activities, it is balanced by the powerful and influential platform we have to expose abuses of power and betrayals of the public trust by government, business, and other institutions. When in doubt, ask.

Editorial personnel whose stories involve organizations to which they have donated money or time, either while working at Injustice Watch or before, should disclose that fact to their editor as soon as possible, such as when being given a particular assignment or pitching a project. If the donation of money or time was substantial enough that a reasonable reader might question the employee’s motives, then a discussion should be had about disclosing that information in a note attached to the story or reassigning the employee.

Upon being hired, and from time to time during employment as determined by editorial managers (such as when starting a new assignment), editorial personnel will be asked to affirm they have no affiliations with, or have donated money or time to, political organizations in a manner that would violate this code with respect to the assignment they are being given. If the employee is unable to make this affirmation, the employee may be reassigned to avoid any potential conflict, or appropriate disclosures may be made in any resulting story. Such personnel have an active duty to raise potential concerns with their managers whenever they might be relevant.

Following and enforcing our ethics code

Injustice Watch takes this code very seriously. All Injustice Watch employees are responsible for compliance with all aspects of this code. All employees shall be required to read this code at the outset of their employment, at the time this code is issued or updated, and once per year thereafter, and to attest in writing they have done so.

The matters addressed by this code are sufficiently important that any violation of the guidelines covered here may be considered serious enough to warrant discipline up to and including dismissal in accordance with Injustice Watch’s progressive discipline policy.

Injustice Watch maintains an open-door policy and suggests employees share their questions, concerns, suggestions, or complaints with someone who can address them properly. In most cases, an employee’s supervisor is in the best position to address an area of concern. However, if an employee is not comfortable speaking with their supervisor or is not satisfied with the supervisor’s response, the employee is encouraged to speak with the executive director or anyone in management whom they are comfortable approaching. Supervisors and managers are required to report suspected violations of this code to the executive director. In serious cases, individuals should feel free to contact the executive director, the editorial director, or the board chair directly. Violations or suspected violations may be submitted on a confidential basis by the complainant or may be submitted anonymously. Reports will be promptly investigated and appropriate corrective action will be taken if warranted by the investigation. Reports of violations or suspected violations will be kept confidential to the extent possible consistent with the need to conduct an adequate investigation.

Anyone filing a complaint concerning a violation or suspected violation of this code or other Injustice Watch policies must be acting in good faith and have reasonable grounds for believing the information disclosed indicates a violation. Any allegations that prove to have been made maliciously or knowingly to be false will be viewed as a serious disciplinary offense.

No employee or director who in good faith reports a violation of this code will suffer harassment, retaliation, or an adverse employment consequence. An employee who retaliates against someone who has reported a violation in good faith is subject to discipline up to and including dismissal.

Finally, to repeat the most important point in dealing with these questions: When in doubt, ask.

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