Every investigative reporter in America faces the threat of a libel suit. They report the news anyway because as his "fancy" lawyer stated, the truth is an absolute defense. And yes, IF he is sued--something that rarely (ever?) occurs when the reporting is factual, he may be compelled to give up his sources. But he also gets to depose the plaintiff and has the power of subpoena. And, if he still holds back because he's "protecting" his source's livelihood, well, in all likelihood, the truth of the matter asserted will have been established long before he ever has to sit for a deposition--that would not occur within 6 months in a fast paced case. With a "fancy" lawyer he could delay the day of reckoning well over a year.