How to Obtain Permission to Videotape Court Proceedings in California
Members of the broadcast or film media frequently seek permission to make audio or video recording of court proceedings. In order to avail yourself of this privilege in California, you must file the appropriate forms indicating the nature and extent of your proposed filming or recording. In federal courts, video and audio recordings are not allowed. (However, the United States Supreme Court recently allowed the videotaping of one case.) Some courts only allow video crews to tape the judge and witnesses; members of the audience and (especially) jurors can be declared off-limits. The videotaping or filming of some types of proceedings always prohibited, including juvenile matters, sidebars, communications between attorneys and their clients, and mental-health or child-custody proceedings. Here's how to get permission to tape or film the proceedings that are available to you.
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Things You'll Need
- Official Judicial Council forms
- Proposed court order
- Mounted video or film camera(s)
Instructions
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Download the appropriate California Judicial Council forms. (Follow the link under Resources.) You will need forms MC-510 (request) and MC-500 (order). You will also need a "proof of service by mail" form.
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Complete the request form and attach any required exhibits to the forms, including the proof-of-service form, which attests that the attorneys for all parties have been sent copies of all filings.
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Speaking of which, make copies of your forms. Each attorney or pro se party must receive one copy of each form that is filed. You should keep at least one copy for your records, as well as submitting one copy for yourself that the court can file and return to you if you're making your request by mail.
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Pay any filing fees that are required. Most courts do not accept personal checks from private parties. A money order may be necessary.
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File the forms either by mail or in person. If you are mailing the forms to the court, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope to facilitate the return of your copies of the filed documents.
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If a court order is issued on the request for media coverage, a court hearing may be required, with attorneys for all parties and media agencies present. Prepare for and attend any such hearing.
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Pay any costs that the court has required you to pay prior to installing your taping equipment on the first day of the case.
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Begin setting up your equipment and start filming.
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Tips & Warnings
Sanctions can be assessed by the court for any violations of rules concerning media coverage. Violators can be punished by having their access terminated, being held in contempt of court and/or being issued an order imposing monetary or other sanctions.
