1989-03-24 Comments of Star Tribune.pdf - Minnesota Judicial Branch

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TABLE 15
Comments by Judges
Some attorneys and clients object to television coverage in
the courtroom. Generally, I feel not inclined to allow
coverage over strong objections.
All comments taken together in this matter would show this
reaction is favorable.
The main reason I am opposed is that as a practical matter
once cameras are allowed in for cases where there is no
critical problem, the court cannot effectively keep them out
when their presence may interfere with a fair trial.
The media conducted itself in what I considered to be a
responsible
coordinator
court or of
manner. Utilization
was the big ingredient.
the media were referred
of media
Any aquestions
to and resolved
“pool”
of the
by the
coordinator
day of the
without
preliminary
any argument,
hearing I
The
held
day before
a session
the first
to discuss
the general
representatives
resolved all
ground rules
of all
the questions
for
media.
about
the hearing.
The ensuing
the conduct of
I invited
discussion
the media
during the hearing.
I feel that the presence of TV cameras is felt by everyone.
There is
because
however,
the tendency to “perform” for the TV.
of the newness of the media. The
is there from the judge to the attorneys.
It might
performance,
be
After comparing one newspaper article, in particular, to
what I observed on the TV coverage, I almost wished the
entire proceeding had been televised.
This experience was better; however, the defendant was not
present. There seems to be more spectators as the case
progresses with each appearance.
Multiple wires running around one’s desk is very hazardous,
disconcerting and inconvenient.
I firmly
incident
detracted
believe
with
from
that the
the still
the dignity
media regrets the
photographer which
of the proceedings
unfortunate
seriously
prior to
convening
media’s
of
inability
tour t.
to
The
police
court’s
itself
displeasure
has been made
with
known
the
and
it -is not expected that there will be repetitions in other
cases. The incident,
case and defendant,
television coverage.
however, by
may not be
This matter
the nature of the
appropriate for
will be determined
type of
further
at the
time that
submitted.
it arises and a further response will be
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