Effective May 1, 2020, it is permissible to carry portable electronic devices throughout the courthouse. Electronic communication devices include cell phones, pagers, two-way portable radios, laptop computers, and any other electronic device that posses the capability of communicating information from one person to another.
All devices must be turned off prior to entering the courtroom or in the alternative placed in silent/vibration mode.
Further, the following uses of such devices are prohibited:
- Any use that a judge determines to be disruptive or distracting to a Court proceeding;
- Photography, audio and/or video recording, broadcasting or livestreaming inside of the courtroom unless expressly permitted by the presiding judge;
- Photography, audio and/or video recording, broadcasting or livestreaming outside of the courtroom without prior consent of the individual(s);
- Photography, audio and/or video recording, broadcasting or livestreaming of any individual called to the Court for jury service or as a witness;
- Use of any portable electronic device by a juror while present in the courtroom;
- Use of any portable electronic device by a witness while present in the courtroom, unless expressly permitted by the presiding judge;
- Use of any portable electronic device to communicate in any way with any courtroom participant;
- Reproduction of Court records that leaves a mark and/or impression on the document or otherwise unreasonably interferes with the operation of the clerk’s office; and
- Any use that compromises courthouse security.
A violation of these rules is punishable by appropriate sanctions including confiscation of the electronic device, contempt of court, or any sanction deemed appropriate in accordance with MCR 8.115.