Off The Wire: News for the Canadian media freelancer Mar 30-April 4

Once a week, we gather stories about the media business, journalism, writing, publishing, and freelancing—with a Canadian focus—and share them in Off the Wire. Who needs a water cooler?

From Canada:

• Coalition condemns court ruling threatening press freedoms [J-Source]
• Superior Court judge upholds RCMP production order for Vice reporter’s notes [J-Source]
• Canadian Judge Orders VICE News Journalist to Hand Over Digital Messages [Vice]
• Finalists named for Atlantic Journalism Awards [Canadian Magazines]
• Offbeat: To cover holes left by cuts, young journalists must define their own roles in the newsroom [Ryerson Review]

From The U.S. and beyond:

• How to Declutter Your Writing Ideas and Finish More Projects [The Write Life]
• 7 reasons why you should break into brand journalism [Mediabistro]
• Why You Should Add ‘Fixer’ to Your Résumé [The Freelancer]
• Even busy freelancers can't afford to skimp on these 4 things [Freelancers Union]
• 5 Freelancers Share Their Worst Client Horror Stories [The Freelancer]
• 9 Places to Find an Expert Source for Your Next Article [The Write Life]
• The Freelancer's Guide To Avoiding Nightmare Clients [Fast Company]
• Why Every Freelance Writer Needs an Accountant on Their Side [The Write Life]

Last week on Story Board:

• Sunny Widerman's tax tips for creatives: It’s nearly April, freelancers. Which means it’s time to start thinking about preparing your tax return...

Spot a story you think we should include in next week's Off the Wire? Email the link to editor@thestoryboard.ca or tweet us at @storyboard_ca.