Following are resources and information regarding media requests in the 52-4 District Court. Please note this is being provided as general guidance and all decisions regarding media coverage are made by the presiding judge of the case on a case-by-case basis.

Rules for journalists and cameras in the courtroom are defined by Administrative Order 1989-1, but please review the below guidelines to help your team plan accordingly.

• Advance Notice: Requests for film or electronic coverage must be made at least three business days before proceedings are scheduled to begin. SCAO form MC27 should be used. This form should be mailed, filed in person at the courthouse, or emailed to 524mediarequest@oakgov.com.
• Designated Areas: Camera operators must remain in the locations designated by court staff. Movement during proceedings is not permitted.
• Equipment Restrictions: Only silent, non-disruptive equipment is allowed. No bright lighting, flash photography, or equipment that generates noise.
• Confidential Conversations: Please do not have microphones near areas where attorney-client conversations, conversations among co-counsel, and conferences at the judge’s bench can be picked up.
• No Interference: Media must not impede court operations, parties, attorneys, witnesses, or the public.
• Livestreaming: Livestreaming is only permitted if specifically approved by the judge in writing. In some cases, to protect the integrity of the proceedings and ensure that the witnesses remain sequestered until they are called to testify under oath, no livestreaming of proceedings will be permitted.
• Follow Staff Instructions: Court staff will do their best to assist with setup and positioning. All directions from the Judge and court personnel must be followed at all times.
• Security Screening: All media personnel and equipment must pass standard security screening upon entry.

Unless the Judge orders otherwise, the following rules apply:

(a) Not more than two videotape or television cameras, operated by not more than one person each, shall be permitted in any courtroom.

(b) Not more than two still photographers, utilizing not more than two still cameras each with not more than two lenses for each camera, and related necessary equipment, shall be permitted in any courtroom.

(c) Not more than one audio system for radio and/or television recording purposes shall be permitted in any courtroom. If such an audio system is permanently in place in the courtroom, pickup shall be made from that system; if it is not, microphones and wires shall be placed as unobtrusively as possible.

(d) Media agency representatives shall make their own pooling arrangements without calling upon the court to mediate any dispute relating to those arrangements.

If you have specific needs or questions regarding placement, equipment, or logistics, please reach out prior to the hearing so we can assist you.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe, respectful, and orderly environment while supporting public access to court proceedings.

Forms & Information

• MC 27 – Request and Notice for Media Coverage
• Administrative Order 1989-01
• Journalists Guide for covering Michigan State Courts