(a) Persons Permitted Inside the Bar of the Courtroom. Only those persons
authorized by the Court, or those persons having an official function, are
permitted inside the bar of the courtroom during proceedings held in open
court.
(b) Possession and Use of Electronic or Photographic Equipment;
Generally. Except as may be permitted by (c) or (d), no person may operate
any visual or audio recording, broadcasting or transmitting device or
equipment in any courtroom. This rule applies regardless of whether court
is actually in session.
(c) Permitted Uses of Electronics. The presiding judge may permit the
following:
(1) Use of electronic or photographic means for presenting evidence or
perpetuating the record;
(2) The broadcasting, televising, recording, or photographing of
investitive, ceremonial, or naturalization proceedings;
(3) Use of electronic devices or auxiliary aids to assist individuals who
require accommodation for a disability; or
(4) Any wireless or internet communication device approved by the
Court.
The presiding judge retains authority and discretion to disallow use of
electronic devices at any time.
(d) Devices and Equipment in Courthouses. By General Order, the Eastern
and Western Districts may regulate the possession of electronic devices and
equipment within each courthouse, including possession by members of the
Bar. Notice of any such General Order shall be posted in a conspicuous
place in all federal court buildings in the District, and will be available on
the Clerk’s website.
(e) Remote Participation. No person remotely participating in any court
proceeding may record or cause to be recorded any such proceeding.
