How to make the best of it when the press presses you

When a case involves a high profile client, or significant or controversial matters, lawyers need to put their best foot forward when its comes to dealing with the media, according to Susan Maynor and John Remsen, Jr., writing in "A Practical Tip Sheet for Lawyers and Law Firms."

Bone up on ethics and law regarding media relations in the relevant jurisdiction, they say, and designate an official spokesperson. Don't let anyone else talk to the press and make it clear that all media requests should go to the person you've chosen.

Maynor and Remsen have some excellent pointers on body language, what to say and how to say it, staying "on message," and the importance of having an exit strategy to end the media blitz outside the courthouse.

Learn why "no comment" is the worst comment.

Once past the hurly-burly on the courthouse steps, there are a number of things to think about when deciding whether to grant an interview. Maynor and Remsen guide you through the thicket.