Local Rule LBR 5091: Cell Phones, Photography, and Recording

LBR 5091: Cell Phones, Photography, and Recording

(a) Prohibited Uses. Use of cell phones inside any courtroom is prohibited. Video equipment inside any courtroom is prohibited unless the Court specifically orders otherwise. The taking of photographs in any courtroom or its environs in connection with a judicial proceeding; the broadcast of a judicial proceeding by radio, television, or other means; and the audio or video recording of a judicial proceeding are all strictly prohibited.

(b) Exceptions. The judicial officer in whose courtroom the proceeding occurs may authorize the use of appropriate devices to preserve or present evidence and to broadcast or memorialize investiture, ceremonial, or naturalization proceedings.

(c) Adoption of Supreme Court Rules. Rules or regulations promulgated by the United States Supreme Court relating to photographing, recording, or broadcasting judicial proceedings are also incorporated by reference into this Rule.

(d) Adoption of District Court Rules in Kalamazoo, Lansing and Marquette. Notwithstanding anything in this Rule to the contrary, the rules of the United States District Court governing use of cell phones, photography, and recording shall apply, and may be enforced, in the Kalamazoo, Lansing, and Marquette courthouses.