The principles are based on a balancing of freedom of press and the public's right to information with the defendants' right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury. Guidelines for editors emphasize that an accused person be regarded as innocent until proven guilty; that accused persons and civil litigants are entitled to be judged in an atmosphere free of passion, prejudice, and sensationalism; that listeners and readers are potential jurors; and that no one's reputation should be injured needlessly. Specific guidelines cover the types of information that should and should not be published, access to public records, photographing of defendants, and cooperation between the press and the courts and other criminal justice agencies or representatives. The need for fair and balanced reporting is emphasized.