Photographing, Audio and Video Recording, and

Electronic Devices. (a) Photographing, Recording, Videoing, or Broadcasting. Photographing, recording, videoing, or broadcasting in or from Court facilities is prohibited. Photographing, recording, videoing, or broadcasting of any proceedings conducted by any means including electronic means is strictly prohibited.

A judge may, however, allow use of electronic equipment for: presenting evidence; preserving the record; memorializing ceremonial, investiture, or naturalization proceedings; maintaining security; and other purposes of judicial administration. (b) Electronic Devices. (1) Definition. “Electronic devices” includes, but is not limited to, recording devices, cellular phones, smart phones, tablets, and computers, as well as devices that connect to and pair with such devices.

(2) General Prohibition. Electronic devices will not be allowed into Court facilities except by Court order or by direct escort and supervision of an employee of a federal agency whose offices are located therein. (3) Exceptions. Attorneys admitted to practice in this Court, authorized interpreters, and Court employees are permitted to bring electronic devices into Court facilities; however, they are bound by the same restrictions set forth above regarding photographing, recording, videoing, and broadcasting.

Electronic devices, when permitted under this Local Rule or by Court order, shall be silenced at all times within Court facilities and shall not distract from or disrupt proceedings. Electronic devices shall not be used to make a phone call or otherwise communicate audibly within the courtrooms and other public areas of Court facilities. Electronic devices shall not be used to send emails or text messages or to otherwise communicate during court proceedings. (4) Inspection.

All electronic devices brought into Court facilities shall be subject to inspection at any time by the United States Marshals Service. 17