Media Access
Beginning May 1, 2023, the news media as defined by Indiana Code may request access for electronic coverage of criminal, civil and family court proceedings. Allen Circuit Court has put in place a process for the news media to request access for electronic coverage.
Our process and rules starting May 1st will be as follows:
News media must make a request for electronic coverage at least 48 hours in advance of the proceeding, using the Media Request Form. If it is less than 48 hours in advance, they may still submit the request, but it may be denied.
For purposes of this process, “news media” is defined as persons employed by or representing a newspaper, periodical, press association, radio station, television station, or wire service and covered by Ind. Code §34-46-4-1.
Under Rule 2.17 of the Indiana Code of Judicial Conduct, a judge has the discretion to approve or deny electronic coverage of a proceeding.
A judge can terminate electronic coverage during a proceeding at any time.
In order to maintain courtroom decorum, camera/video/audio operators can only break down and move/remove equipment during breaks in court proceedings.
The broadcasting is restricted to non-confidential proceedings. The Allen Circuit Court will prohibit media broadcast of minors; victims of violent offenses, sex offenses, and domestic abuse; jurors; attorney-client communications; bench conferences; and materials on counsel tables and judicial bench. Circuit Court will also prohibit the media from broadcasting protective order hearings.
A judge will take into account the input of attorneys for the parties when considering electronic coverage requests.
No request shall be considered approved until written confirmation is received by the requesting news media outlet from the Allen Circuit Court.
