Return to Cameras in the Courts index Cameras in the Courts intro All states that permit television, radio and photographic coverage of courtroom proceedings, whether on a permanent or experimental basis, have adopted rules or guidelines governing such coverage. The consent of the presiding judge is required in almost all states, and the judge has discretion to control the coverage during the proceedings.
Many states require advance written application for permission.
Coverage is prohibited in nearly all states in cases involving juveniles, and most states prohibit coverage of victims of sex crimes, domestic relations cases and trials involving trade secrets. Voir dire coverage generally is prohibited. Coverage of jurors either is prohibited or is restricted to prevent visual identification of jurors. Some states prohibit coverage of witnesses who appear under subpoena, and many states deny coverage of victims or witnesses who object. All states ban coverage of conferences in court.