Information For The Media

This section provides information for the media when covering cases in San Bernardino courthouses and courtrooms. It includes the rules regarding filming, parking and the forms and instructions for requesting authorization to photograph, film or electronically record in any courtroom or courthouse.

RULES & ORDERS GOVERNING MEDIA IN THE COURTROOM

California Rule of Court, rule 1.150 and the General Order addresses the rules and orders governing media while recording, photographing and broadcasting in any courtroom or courthouse.

Photography, electronic recordings or broadcasting by anyone ARE NOT permitted in any public area of the courthouse including, but not limited to, courtrooms, entrances, exists, hallways, staircases, elevators, and courtrooms unless permitted within a courtroom by a judicial officer or in a location specifically approved by the Court Executive Office or designee. Cameras, recording devices, and the like, may be brought into the courthouse, but must be turned off while transporting in any area of a courthouse unless permitted.

The following are examples of prohibited activity:

Videotaping, photographing and/or electronically recording of:
- The interior of a courtroom through the windows of a courtroom door
- Selected jurors at any time during the case
- Spectators and other members of the public within a courtroom
- Judicial officers and court employees without prior consent

REQUESTING MEDIA COVERAGE IN THE COURTROOM

Media wishing to electronically capture (i.e., by video, camera or recording device, etc.) a court proceeding must file the “Media to Photograph, Record, or Broadcast” (form MC-500) at least one (1) day before the portion of the proceeding to be covered, unless good cause is shown. A completed proposed “Order on Media request to Permit Coverage” (form MC-510) must be submitted with the request. Both forms must be faxed to the appropriate department for judicial approval. A list of fax numbers are available below.

For more information about media-related rules and orders or cameras in the courthouse, please see the links below.