Courtroom Media Guidelines

These guidelines must be followed in addition to specific terms which may be included on the presiding judge’s approval form.

• Not more than one television camera operated (in silent mode) by not more than one camera person shall be permitted in the courtroom during a judicial proceeding
• Not more than two still photographers using not more than two camera bodies (operated in silent mode) and two lenses shall be permitted in the courtroom during any proceeding.
• Upon approval, computers may be used for coverage via social media (twitter, etc).
• Coverage of the proceedings shall take place from the area designated by the presiding judge
• Other than cameras, recording, transmitting and broadcast equipment shall be located outside the courtroom
• No equipment or personnel shall impede pedestrian traffic to, or from, the courtroom
• Media personnel shall not move about the courtroom or draw undue attention while court is in session
• While court is in session, television and still cameras shall be operated from a fixed position in the designated area only.
• Photographing or videotaping is prohibited when the court is in recess
• Installing and/or removing video and audio equipment shall take place only while the court is in recess
• Photographing or videotaping is prohibited in the hall of the courthouse
• Photographing or videotaping jury selection, any jury, or individual jurors is prohibited
• Photographing or videotaping any “side bar” or private conference in the court between attorneys, clients and/or the judge is prohibited
• Insignias, logos or identification on clothing and/or equipment is prohibited in courtrooms during judicial proceedings
• No artificial or auxiliary lighting shall be used at any time

Failure to follow these provisions may result in denial, limitation or termination of extended media coverage. Decisions by judges regarding extended media coverage are not subject to appeal.