The threat of lawsuits causes a libel chill for many journalists.
libel chill
idiomUneasiness or unwillingness to speak publicly or to write about a matter, as a result of the threat or suggestion of a libel action should one do so.
The newspaper refused to publish the investigation, fearing a libel chill from the powerful corporation mentioned in the report.
By aggressively threatening litigation against every critic, the firm successfully created a libel chill that silenced public debate on their controversial business practices.