The Press Association’s media law specialist, Mike Dodd, has qualified as a barrister and been called to the Bar at Middle Temple, after 36 years as a journalist.
Dodd plays a vital role in helping regional reporters to challenge unreasonable or unlawful reporting restriction orders and is also deputy editor of Media Lawyer, the PA-owned bi-monthly legal journal.
Dodd studied part-time for his law degree at Thames Valley University and for a Master’s degree in Child Law and Policy at Brunel University. He completed his Bar Vocational Course at the BPP Law School in Holborn, London, in June.
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During his studies, Dodd continued as a copy editor at PA where he had worked for 25 years and dealt with editorial legal issues.
He said: “Being called to the Bar is the realisation of a personal dream. It has been hard work, but has been well worth it. I am looking forward to the further challenges it will bring, and to using the knowledge and experience I have gained in my work at PA and at Media Lawyer.
“I also hope to be able to play some small part in defending press freedom, which I believe is under a growing threat from the courts and politicians.”
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Dodd now hopes to find a pupillage under a senior practising barrister in order to finish his legal training.
Jonathan Grun, PA editor, said: “Mike’s knowledge of media law has been an asset to the Press Association for many years.
“I am delighted that he has achieved his goal of qualifying as a barrister. His legal briefings and advice are invaluable to our reporters.”
By Jon Slattery
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