Media representation of forensic cases in the dilemma of social service and press ethics: the case of İzmir

Aim: The aim of this study is to describe how judicial cases take place in the media, how the media affects the process of a lawsuit. Its effects on the presumption of confidentiality of private life and to evaluate the problem area within the framework of social work and press ethics. Material and Method: This is qualitative case study. Three judicial proceedings in the courthouses in Izmir province, which are in the media, have been selected as a case study with appropriate sampling technique. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with the lawyers of the parties mentioned, the lawsuit reporters and the social workers working in the courthouse. The semi-structured interview form developed by the researcher was used. MAXQDA program was used for data processing and analysis and the data were analyzed by inductive thematic analysis. Results: It was seen that the press brought judicial cases to the agenda, exerting pressure on the public opinion and affecting the court process. The forensic social workers involved in this process did not engage in any communication or cooperation with reporters or lawyers of the parties. Although it is contrary to social service, law and press ethics, it has been determined that news that threaten personal rights and there is no preventive mechanism of personal data. Conclusion: The press is an effective tool in defending the rights of its clients according ethical principles of the social service, press and legal profession are exhibited in the news production process. Keywords: Forensic social work, press, ethics, advocacy.