Wyoming
How Cohen v. Cowles Media Co. applies in Wyoming: state-specific rules, key cases, and bar exam notes for Other.
Wyoming recognizes the principles of promissory estoppel and the protection of confidential sources as seen in Cohen v. Cowles Media Co. The state emphasizes the need for balancing First Amendment rights with the obligations arising from breaches of confidentiality.
In Wyoming, the rule is that a party who breaches a promise of confidentiality may be held liable under principles of promissory estoppel and may be required to compensate the injured party for damages resulting from that breach.
A newspaper was found liable for breaking a promise to a source regarding confidentiality, affirming the importance of maintaining trust in journalistic practices.
This case reinforced the doctrine of promissory estoppel, indicating that reliance on a promise can create enforceable obligations even in the absence of formal contracts.
Wyoming's approach is consistent with the federal standard established in Cohen, which protects against the breach of confidentiality in journalistic contexts. However, Wyoming has more specific state case law that applies promissory estoppel in a broader context.
The principles from Cohen v. Cowles Media Co. and related cases are relevant for the Wyoming bar exam, particularly in testing the understanding of promissory estoppel and journalistic confidentiality.