M Civ JI 2.02A Cameras in the Courtroom

In order to increase public knowledge of court proceedings and to make the courts as open as possible, the Michigan Supreme Court allows cameras in courtrooms as long as certain guidelines are followed. One of those guidelines is that no one is allowed to film or photograph you, so you will not end up on television or in the newspaper.

The presence of cameras does not make this case more important than any other. All trials are equally important to the parties. You should not draw any inferences or conclusions from the fact that cameras are present at this particular trial. Also, since the news media is generally able to decide what portions of the trial they wish to attend, their attendance may be periodic from day to day. You are not to concern yourself with why certain witnesses are filmed or photographed and others are not. Whether a particular witness is filmed or photographed is not any indication as to the value of, or weight to be given to, that witness’s testimony.

Your complete attention must be focused on the trial. You should ignore the presence of the cameras. If you find at any time that you are unable to concentrate because of the cameras, please notify me immediately through the bailiff so that I can take any necessary corrective action.

Note on Use

This instruction would only be given if the trial judge has allowed cameras in the courtroom as permitted by Michigan Supreme Court Administrative Order 1989-1. M Civ JI 60.01A would also be given before the jury deliberates.

History

M Civ JI 2.02A was added October 2013. Amended July 2017.