Indiana judges may allow media to have cameras in court starting May 1

Beginning May 1, judges across the state of Indiana can allow news media to record, photograph and broadcast non-confidential court proceedings, according to the Indiana Judicial Branch.

This new order amends Rule 2.17 of the Code of Judicial Conduct, which prohibits such actions without prior approval from the Indiana Supreme Court.

Now, that decision lies with local judges on a case-by-case basis. Cameras are still prohibited unless a judge authorizes it.

“This is the culmination of years of work and pilot projects with discussion and evaluation,” said Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush. “Trial court judges are in the best position to determine how to balance the importance of transparency while protecting the rights of people involved in a court matter.”

The decision comes after a four-month pilot program, public comment period and evaluation by the Indiana Supreme Court.