Home > State/Circuit Guides > Colorado

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Detailed Guide: Colorado

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Allows Cameras? Yes (with permission)
Exceptions: Closed proceedings

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Audio or Video Webcast? Yes
Media Guide Available? Yes
Allows Cell Phones to Record Video? No

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Under Colorado Supreme Court Rules, Chapter 38, Rule 3, the judge may authorize expanded media coverage—defined as any photography or audio recording of proceedings—subject to several guidelines.

Judges have the power to prohibit expanded media coverage upon a finding of substantial likelihood of interference with a fair trial, a reasonable likelihood that coverage will detract from the solemnity, decorum, or dignity of the court, or that coverage will create unique, adverse effects, or harm which is distinct from that caused by coverage by other types of media. Those wishing to cover a particular proceeding must submit a written request to do so to the presiding judge at least one day in advance of the proceeding and must give a copy of the request to the counsel for each party participating in the proceeding.

Pretrial hearings in criminal cases cannot feature expanded media coverage. Additionally, coverage of jury selection, in camera hearings, and most pre-trial hearings is prohibited. No close-up photography of the jury, bench conferences or attorney-client communication is permitted. Consent of the participants is not required. The judge may also terminate coverage if the terms of the rules or additional rules imposed by the Court have been violated.

Only one still and one video camera operator (with up to two cameras, at the judge’s discretion) are allowed in the courtroom at one time. The camera operator may use a tripod but may not change positions or equipment while the court is in session. The media are responsible for arranging pooling agreements. Camera operators and equipment cannot bear any identifying marks (including call letters, logos, symbols, and legends) while in the courtroom. Electronic devices are only allowed for “the perpetuation of a record, or for purposes of judicial administration.”

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Links: Authority
• Colorado Supreme Court, Chapter 38, Rule 3: Expanded Media Coverage of Court Proceedings

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Links: Other
• Colorado Courts Media Alerts
• Audio Webcast: Colorado Supreme Court Oral Arguments
• Colorado Courts YouTube Channel
• Colorado Appellate Courts Live Broadcast
• Colorado Media Resources

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Last edited: December 12, 2022