Cameras In The Courtroom PDF Download

The "cameras in the courtroom" legal issue has recently expanded to include handheld image dissemination and real-time reporting using cell phones, laptops, and third-party platforms such as Twitter. This new system of technology is often referred to as "Web 2.0." The judiciary and the press constantly face new legal and ethical issues related to the use of such technology, and this study is one of the first comprehensive scholarly analyses of this legal problem. While every state permits some type of camera coverage and has a law on the subject, few states have laws that specifically address the use of electronic devices to send information (text, audio, video, photo) directly from the courtroom. The result is an area of the law with few published court opinions and great uncertainty. This study examined the legal status of live-reporting with mobile devices in state and federal courtrooms across the country. Using court opinions, examples of successful live reporting, and existing laws, a snapshot of this evolving and understudied area was created. From this data, a model policy for courts on the use of electronic devices and list of best practices for journalists was developed. The model policy combined the experiences in different jurisdictions to offer a tool for courts to use in dealing with the increased demand for permission to live-report with mobile devices. The policy presumes that coverage is permitted, a presumption supported by the historical and legal foundations of the law in this area, but also considers the logistical requirements of managing a court and the essential need for respect for the court and the judge. The best practices approach the issue from the perspective of journalists, providing a framework for practicing journalists that will aid them in educating court professionals and enhancing their chances for initial and continuing permission to report live from courtrooms.