Local Rule LR 83.28: Release of Information by Courthouse Personnel

LR 83.28 Release of Information by Courthouse Personnel. All courthouse supporting personnel, including but not limited to the United States Marshal and his deputies, the Clerk and his deputies, the Probation Officer and probation clerks, bailiffs, court reporters, and any employees or subcontractors retained by the official court reporters, are prohibited from disclosing to any person, without authorization from the Court, any information relating to a pending grand jury proceeding, criminal case, or civil case that is not part of the public record of the Court. The public record of each case shall be those materials which are contained in the court's official file as maintained by the Clerk except such parts thereto as may be sealed, secret, impounded or specially set aside for in camera inspection. This prohibition specifically applies to grand jury proceedings, and to in camera arguments and hearings held in chambers or otherwise outside the presence of the public. Pleadings received by the Clerk relating to plea bargains shall not be made a part of the public record until trial has commenced. Courthouse personnel contact with media representatives regarding official court business shall be limited to providing them access and copies of the public record to which the general public is entitled, and to no other commentary, opinion, or assistance.