Can I review an article before it’s published?

It’s a question we hear often from sources and interviewees: Can I see the story before it goes to print?

While it’s an understandable request, sharing unpublished work can get in the way of independent reporting.

Like most newsrooms, the Free Press doesn’t distribute articles for review before they’re published. It’s a standard journalism practice designed to keep our reporting free of outside influence.

During investigations, reporters might share the main allegations of a story with the subject for transparency and to allow for an accurate response. In other cases, quotes might be read back in order to ensure accuracy.

But, generally speaking, if a journalist from a reputable news organization is calling or emailing you to do an interview, you’d be right to assume you won’t be able to see that article before it goes to print.