Adverse Witness
SARAMILES INTERVIEW
ADVERSEWITNESS AW
“Sara Miles is a savior, her knowledge of all things media has proven to be invaluable throughout my time as Chief Judge. She has been able to spearhead our information process through some of the most difficult times our Circuit has faced. I don’t want to imagine going through Irma and COVID-19
they can use you as a resource. As a reporter, I once made several dozen calls to attorneys trying to get comment on a story… from that I actually made some good contacts with attorneys who I could call about a legal question or they would give me tips on a high-profile case. I would also say that social media can be a great resource for attorneys. If reporters see that you are active on social media they are more likely to reach out (if that is what they want!) or even get a story idea. What is your professional background? I graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. I worked as an anchor and reporter in Arizona, California, Minnesota, and ended my television career in Fort Myers at NBC2. I became PIO for the 20th Circuit AOC in 2014. Why did you transition from television to a more “behind the scenes” role as PIO? I was looking for a 9-5 job with a more normal schedule. When working in TV, I missed many holidays with family and weekend outings with friends. Also in TV you sign a contract and once your contract is up they can ask you to re-sign or give you the boot. It’s nice having a more stable career. How did your work as an anchor and reporter prepare you for your job with the Twentieth Judicial Circuit? In each television market I worked in I had the opportunity to cover some aspect of court or even going into jails. I was able to experience the different rules pertaining to “cameras in the courtroom” and also learn the differences between a Clerk, PD, SAO (or DA), etc. I get a lot of questions from people now who think we are all ONE entity! While at NBC2,
without her. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of accolades than Sara. If this doesn’t make sense it’s because I wasn’t able to run it by her before responding to you.” – Chief Judge McHugh What is your position within the Twentieth Judicial Circuit? I am the Public Information Officer (“PIO”) for the Administrative Office of the Courts for the 20th Circuit. As PIO, I handle media requests, social media, public records requests, publications, education, crisis communications, events (such as Investitures, Retirements, Mock Trials, etc.), backup emergency coordinator, and serve as liaison between the judiciary and the media. You mentioned that you are a liaison between the judiciary and the media. Do you ever assist attorneys in communicating with the media? If not, are you aware of any resources for attorneys who need assistance communicating with the media? I do not. I will sometimes refer reporters to attorneys if they have questions about certain legal aspects of a case that the judiciary or I cannot comment on. My best advice for attorneys would be to gain a rapport with reporters so
September 2020 Vol. 192
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