DEFINITION: “Electronic Devices,” as used within this Rule, includes cameras, video
recorders, audio recorders, cellular or digital phones, palm pilots and pdas, computers, and
all similar electronic, cable, digital, computerized or other forms and methods of recording,
transmitting, or communicating.
(A) Prohibitions
No electronic devices will be permitted into the Courthouse subject to the exceptions
below. To avert delays in security screening in the lobby, those entering the
Courthouse are strongly urged to heed this prohibition, because such devices will not
be held within the Courthouse. News media representatives wishing to conduct
interviews in relation to a Court case may contact the presiding judge to seek
permission to bring electronic equipment into the building for that purpose. If
permission is granted, the judge will designate a specific area of the Courthouse
where such electronic equipment may be stored and used. After the interviews are
completed, the equipment must be immediately removed from the Courthouse.
(B) Exceptions
(1) This Rule may be suspended for naturalization or other ceremonial
proceedings or otherwise as ordered by the presiding judge.
(2) Attorneys are allowed to possess and carry electronic devices within the
Courthouse (upon showing proper identification to Court security personnel
at the front desk) and in the Courtrooms. However, such equipment will not
be used in a Courtroom without the permission of the presiding judge, and
such equipment may not in any event be used to record or transmit Court
proceedings by audio, visual, or other means. Also, an attorney may not
allow any other person (e.g., a client, whether in custody or not) to use the
attorney’s cell phone or other electronic device in the Courthouse.
(3) This Rule does not apply to official Court reporters in the performance of their
official duties. Any use of recording or transcription services or equipment
other than by the official Court reporters must be approved by the presiding
judge.
(4) This Rule does not apply to the United States Marshal, Deputy U.S. Marshals,
Court Security Officers, law enforcement personnel known to Court Security
Officers upon production of proper identification, and
(5) Employees of the Illinois Department of Corrections who have transported
state prisoners to Court.
(C) Note: This Rule does apply to prospective jurors.
