SLR 17-3.181: Media or Other Public Access Coverage of Court Events ................................

This rule governs public access coverage in public areas outside of the courtrooms under UTCR 3.180(11). For the purpose of this rule a public area is defined as any area within 30 feet of any point of ingress or egress to the second and third floor of the courthouse, and any hallway, elevator or other area used by the public for access to the second and third floor of the courthouse. In Lincoln County, public areas on the second and third floor of the courthouse are within the control and supervision of the court. Subject to UTCR 3.180, no public access coverage will be permitted in any public area except as provided herein: Any party seeking to provide public access coverage in any area must file with the clerk of the court, at least two hours prior to the scheduled proceeding time, a certificate (See Appendix 1) in advance of commencing the coverage. This rule includes court proceedings conducted remotely on WebEx. Remote court hearings on WebEx are subject to UTCR 3.180 and may not be recorded or 17th Judicial District, Lincoln County Circuit Court Supplementary Local Rules for 2026 - Page 7 captured without seeking public access coverage and filing a certificate in advance of commencing coverage. Upon filing of the certificate described in sub-section (a) above, the clerk will present the certificate(s) to the judge presiding in the case related to the coverage request. The judge may permit or deny the public access coverage. If public access coverage is denied, the judge must make findings of fact on the record setting forth the substantial reasons for the denial. The judge may prohibit public access coverage in public areas if there is any likelihood that the coverage would: (a) Constitute a material security risk to the public, jurors, witnesses or parties; (b) Interfere with the rights of the parties to a fair trial or would affect the presentation of evidence or outcome of the trial; or (c) Cause any cost or increased burden from the coverage that would interfere with the efficient administration of justice. When public access coverage is permitted, public access restrictions will include a prohibition of any coverage of matters described in UTCR 3.080(2). The judge may also, subject to the requirements of this rule, establish other restrictions that apply to the coverage. Public access coverage restrictions may include: (a) Pooling coverage as described in UTCR 3.180(2); and (b) Any restrictions reasonably necessary to preserve the solemnity, decorum and dignity of the court and to protect the parties, witnesses and jurors. If public access coverage for public areas is requested, coverage restrictions may include: (a) The designation of a reasonable location no closer than 15 feet from the courtroom where the case related to the request will be heard; and (b) A requirement that public access coverage representatives will be required to physically stay within the designated areas.