Implementation of Amended Practice Book §70-9 Protocol Effective January 1, 2023

All camera and electronic coverage of arguments before the Supreme Court and Appellate Court shall be subject to the requirements of Practice Book §§ 70-9 and the following guidelines:

1. Any media or pool representative who has been approved as media, pursuant to Section 1-10A of the Connecticut Practice Book and wishes to broadcast, televise, record or photograph a Supreme Court or Appellate Court proceeding shall send an e-mail request for electronic coverage to the External Affairs Division at external.affairs@jud.ct.gov at least three business days prior to the commencement of the proceeding.
2. One television production unit consisting of either: (1) one production crew utilizing multiple, tripod or wall-mounted, remotely controlled cameras; or (2) one camera operator utilizing one portable tripod mounted television camera; shall be permitted in the courtroom. One still camera photographer carrying not more than two still inaudible cameras with lenses shall be permitted in the courtroom. One audio system for televising, broadcasting, and recording shall be permitted in the courtroom.
3. All personnel and equipment shall be situated in an unobtrusive manner within the courtroom. The location of any such equipment and personnel shall be determined by the appellate jurists. The location of the camera, to the extent possible, shall provide access to optimum coverage. Cameras and operators shall remain in their appointed positions within the courtroom while the Court is in session. Cameras may pan, tilt, or zoom in on jurists and/or attorneys from their fixed positions.
4. Media outlets may, at their discretion, add on-screen graphics identifying information for the purpose of making the proceeding more understandable to the viewer, including but not limited to venue name and location, docket name and number of the proceeding and names of jurists, attorneys, and other parties.
5. All audio and video equipment shall be set up prior to the opening of Court and shall not be dismantled or removed until the Court adjourns for the day.
6. Photographers and equipment operators must conduct themselves in the courtroom quietly and discreetly, with due regard for the dignity of the courtroom.
7. Any request for special permission to cover any argument in a manner that deviates from the Practice Book rules or this protocol shall be e-mailed to the External Affairs Division at external.affairs@jud.ct.gov, which will present the request to the panel of jurists for their consideration.