Please note these important guidelines when filming or taking photos within the Courthouse.

• Do not film or take photos of jurors or prospective jurors at any time or in any area of the Courthouse.
• Do not film or take photos of faces of juvenile defendants in Children’s Court.
• Do not record audio of bench conferences.  Any microphones that are positioned beyond the rail must be turned off during bench conferences.
• Do not set up or take down equipment until a recess.
• Do not go in front of or take your equipment in front of the rail.
• Do follow all rules set forth by the judge in the courtroom, including any rules prohibiting filming or photographing certain witnesses.
• Do set up all equipment 15 minutes before the start of a proceeding.
• Do tape wires or cables securely to the floor.
• Do be aware of images that are being captured.  For example, a tight shot of a defendant may show graphic images of evidence on a nearby computer monitor in the background.
• Do dress appropriately for a courthouse setting:
  • No shorts, T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, sunglasses or flip-flops.
• Do use only natural light for video and still photography.
• Do coordinate with the Court administration and the Judge’s bailiff on permissible locations for a TV camera and any microphones, the use of social media (Twitter, etc.), the use of laptops or texting during proceedings and any live coverage including an internet stream.
• Do limit movement in the Courtroom.  Still photographers must remain seated in the same location but may relocate during a recess.
• Do minimize distractions and wait for a recess before switching out tapes, connecting cables, unpacking or storing gear or performing other noisy activities.
• Do use a noise-reduction device, if possible.
• Only one TV camera and two still cameras are permitted in a courtroom.  Although the Court administration may facilitate, journalists are ultimately responsible for organizing and complying with pool agreements.

Note: These guidelines were developed by the Second Judicial District Court consistent with Supreme Court Rule 23-107, which governs broadcasting, televising, photographing and recording of proceedings.  Pursuant to Rule 23-107(A)(1), all news media coverage is subject at all times to the authority of the Judge.  Please comply with all directives issued by the Judge.