Joel N. Kreizman
Partner
732-568-8363 jkreizman@sh-law.comFirm Insights
Electronic Devices Now Have New Rules For Use in New Jersey Courts
Author: Joel N. Kreizman
Date: January 16, 2015
Key Contacts
Back
New for 2015: Revised Rules for Using Electronic Devices in New Jersey Courts
In December, the Supreme Court of New Jersey announced new rules for the use of electronic devices in the state’s courtrooms. They take effect on February 2, 2015.
The guidelines, which were last revised in 2003, are intended to reflect changes in technology as well as the way in which news is reported. They apply equally to journalists, attorneys, and the public.
As noted by the New Jersey Judiciary, “The pervasiveness of new electronic devices, and their availability to traditional journalists, bloggers, new age journalists and the general public, requires courts to implement guidelines governing the use of electronic devices in and around a courthouse, so that their use does not compromise fairness to litigants, efficiency in court proceedings and/or appropriate courtroom decorum.”
The most significant change is that anyone who wants to use electronic equipment in the courtroom must sign an agreement that they will adhere to the rules set forth in Supreme Court Guidelines on Electronic Devices in the Courtroom. The agreement must only be signed once and is then valid for 12 months. Once it is executed, the agreement permits the individual to use an electronic device inside a courtroom to take notes and receive information and communications without further approval being required. Violating the agreement may result in sanctions, including, but not limited to, contempt of court.
The guidelines for recording, photographing or broadcasting a court proceeding are virtually unchanged. Individuals seeking to do so must request permission from the court to do so.
The guidelines also address the permissible use of electronic devices on courthouse grounds and common areas. For instance, while in common areas of a courthouse individuals may use an electronic device for any purpose other than to take photographs, electronically record and/or broadcast. The guidelines also reserve the right to restrict the use of electronic devices if such use “interferes with the administration of justice, poses a threat to safety or security, or compromises the integrity of the proceedings.”
- Business attorney New Jersey
- New Jersey Business Litigation Attorney
- NJ attorney Scarinci
- Scarinci Hollenbeck
- Practices: Litigation, Commercial Litigation - Business Litigation Attorney
- Locations: Red Bank, NJ, Little Falls, NJ, New York City
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Related Posts
See all
New York NDA Requirements for Businesses
Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) remain a critical tool for protecting sensitive business information. However, New York NDA requirements have evolved, and businesses must ensure these agreements are carefully drafted to remain enforceable. In a competitive market like New York City, NDAs are commonly used to protect proprietary information, client relationships, and strategic plans. At the same […]
Author: Dan Brecher
New Jersey Will Contest Grounds Explained
How Courts Evaluate Testamentary Capacity and Undue Influence Will contests in New Jersey are difficult to win, given the strong presumption that a properly executed will reflects the testator’s intent. However, challenges based on lack of testamentary capacity and undue influence remain common, particularly where there are concerns about mental capacity or the involvement of […]
Author: Marc J. Comer
Legal Issues Before Bringing on Investors
Bringing on outside investors can provide the capital and strategic support a business needs to grow. However, raising capital also introduces important legal, financial, and operational considerations. Before bringing on investors, businesses should address key legal issues to reduce risk, streamline investor due diligence, and position the company for long-term success. Early preparation signals that […]
Author: Dan Brecher
SECURE 2.0 RMD Planning Strategies
How the Updated Law Shapes Retirement and Estate Planning The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 materially reshapes the required minimum distribution (RMD) landscape, extending tax deferral opportunities while accelerating distribution requirements for many beneficiaries. For high-net-worth individuals and families, these changes are not merely technical. They require a reassessment of retirement income strategies, beneficiary planning, […]
Author: Marc J. Comer
Buying Commercial Property in New Jersey: Legal Guide for Small Businesses
Small businesses considering buying commercial property in New Jersey must evaluate a range of legal, financial, and operational factors. While ownership can offer long-term value and control, it also introduces significant risks if not properly structured. This guide outlines key considerations to help New Jersey business owners make informed decisions, minimize legal exposure, and successfully […]
Author: Robert L. Baker, Jr.
The SEC’s Latest Guidance on Applying Federal Securities Laws to Tokenized Securities
On January 28, 2026, staff of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Divisions of Corporation Finance, Investment Management, and Trading and Markets issued a joint statement clarifying how existing federal securities laws apply to tokenized securities. The SEC’s “Statement on Tokenized Securities” does not establish new law, but it does provide greater clarity on the […]
Author: Dan Brecher
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.