In order to survive financially, news media in capitalist societies must entertain, inform, and instruct the public on social and moral order. Because a common set of complex moral principles held in common by all citizens can no longer be assumed, the media must often simplify the moral message by using the devices of stereotyping, exaggeration, and distortion to tell about crime. By subjecting the facts of a criminal case to such manipulation, the media run the risk of precipitating a miscarriage of justice. Many reporters need to be taught the formal skills of investigative reporting, especially regarding contempt and defamation law. Reporters must try to be more innovative in reporting material on crime and criminal justice. Lawyers and the news media must work together to clarify contempt laws. The media must recognize that trial by the media can and does occur, often damaging a defendant's opportunity for a fair trial. 30 footnotes.