Proposed Amendment to S.J.C. Rule 1:19
The Supreme Judicial Court Rules Committee solicits comments on proposed
amendments to S.J.C.
Rule 1:19, Cameras in the Courts. The amendments were recommended by
the Supreme Judicial Court's Judiciary-Media Committee. They were drafted
by a subcommittee created to review the current rule and recommend changes in
light of advances in technology and journalism since the rule was
promulgated. The proposed revisions change the name of the rule to
Electronic Access to the Courts. They also include an expanded definition
of media and a requirement that media register with the Court's Public
Information Office. The proposed amendments allow the media to possess and
operate electronic devices in the courtroom, subject to certain
restrictions. Live blogging from the courtroom generally would be
permissible.
The proposed amendments, a blackline comparison with the current rule and a
summary
of the proposed changes prepared by the subcommittee that drafted the
amendments are attached.
Comments should be directed to Christine P. Burak, Secretary, Supreme
Judicial Court Rules Committee, Supreme Judicial Court, John Adams Courthouse,
One Pemberton Square, Boston MA 02108 on or before Friday, January 28,
2011. Comments may also be sent to christine.burak@sjc.state.ma.us.