Local Rule Rule 83.1: Photography, Recording, and Broadcasting

Rule 83.1 Photography, Recording, and Broadcasting

(a) General Prohibition. The taking of photographs, recording, or broadcasting by any electronic device including cellular phones, cameras, radio, television, or other means is prohibited in the Federal Court facility, unless permission has been granted by the chief judge or presiding judge of a proceeding or ceremony. The United States Attorney may also grant permission to photograph, record, or broadcast events, such as press conferences or internal ceremonies, in the United States Attorney offices within the Federal Court facility.

(b) Definition. "Federal Court facility" includes any property occupied in whole or in part by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, or any temporary property occupied by a judicial officer of the Northern District of Ohio. It encompasses the property in its entirety, including all entrances and exits. It does not include public sidewalks outside of such property.

(c) Recordings. This Rule shall not prohibit recordings by a court reporter or other Court-designated representative; provided, however, no court reporter or any other person shall use or permit to be used any part of any recording of a court proceeding on, or in connection with, any radio or television broadcast of any kind. The Court may permit photographs of exhibits to be taken by, or under the direction of, the Court and counsel.

(d) Enforcement. Judicial officers, the United States Marshal and deputies, court security officers, and any other federal security force authorized by law have the authority to prohibit the use of electronic devices in the Federal Court facility for the purpose of enforcing this Rule.

(1) Confiscation. Authorized personnel may confiscate any cellular telephone, camera, or other recording device being used in violation of this Rule.

(2) Dismissal. Any violation of this Rule may result in the immediate dismissal or exclusion of the offending individual.

(3) Arrest/Contempt of Court. Any persons violating this Rule may be punished as criminal contempt of court and may be taken into custody, referred to the United States Attorney's Office for prosecution, and brought before a judicial officer without unnecessary delay. A violation that disrupts a judicial proceeding may be punished by summary proceedings.

(e) Relief from Confiscation of Device. A person whose electronic device has been confiscated and not returned by the conclusion of the proceeding or ceremony may apply in writing within seven (7) days after confiscation for its return. Confiscated devices that are not returned, either because no request has been made within the time provided or the request for return has been denied, shall be disposed of in a manner directed by the chief judge.

(f) Consent to Provisions. Any person bringing an electronic device into a Federal Court facility shall be determined to have consented to the provisions of this Rule.

(See LCrR 53.1) Last revised 12/1/2018. See Historical Notes for full revision history.