Rule 230 Duty of news reporters to obtain permission

1. News reporters desiring permission to provide electronic coverage of a proceeding in the courtroom shall file a written request with the judge at least 24 hours before the proceeding commences, however, the judge may grant such a request on shorter notice or waive the requirement for a written request. The attorneys of record shall be notified by the court administrator or by the clerk of the court of the filing of any such request by a news reporter. The written order of the judge granting or denying access by a news reporter to a proceeding shall be made a part of the record of the proceedings.

2. Under these rules, there is a presumption that all courtroom proceedings that are open to the public are subject to electronic coverage. A judge shall make particularized findings on the record when determining whether electronic coverage will be allowed at a proceeding, in whole or in part. Specifically, the judge shall consider the following factors:

(a) The impact of coverage upon the right of any party to a fair trial;

(b) The impact of coverage upon the right of privacy of any party or witness;

(c) The impact of coverage upon the safety and well-being of any party, witness or juror;

(d) The likelihood that coverage would distract participants or would detract from the dignity of the proceedings;

(e) The adequacy of the physical facilities of the court for coverage; and

(f) Any other factor affecting the fair administration of justice.