A Question About Cameras Inside the Courtroom

A QUESTION ABOUT CAMERAS INSIDE THE COURTROOM

As many of you know, it’s up to the states as to whether or not cameras are allowed inside the courtroom. Some states allow trials to be broadcast live (think of the O.J. Simpson trial in California). Other states ban all cameras in courts of law, thus creating a secondary market of coverage in trials of interest to the public, which obviously isn’t nearly as transparent.

There’s no doubt the absence of cameras of any kind in New York State courts has significantly impacted how the current Donald Trump trial is publicly perceived. By consequence, the disappointing lack of visuals and void of a compelling narrative is likely to influence our nation’s history–and not in a positive way. The added layer of post-trial *interpretation* by competing media outlets — including major television networks — means their respective audiences will hear very different stories about this trial. Hence, they will reach different conclusions, or verdicts. The court of public opinion becomes jaded. Denying the American people the right to watch a trial of this magnitude and make judgements for themselves in a live format seems like a terrible disservice to the public interest, and the democratic process.

I understand the reasons why cameras inside courtrooms can (and would be) a major distraction in big trials. Some say the courtroom would turn into a circus, especially in this case. Can you imagine how many Americans would have tuned in to watch the Stormy Daniels testimony and cross-examination earlier this week? Unfortunately, far fewer people will follow the case and even that audience is subject to second-hand interpretations, which warps perceptions.

I’m privileged to know several attorneys, including New York attorneys. A few of you have even argued in court in front of cameras. I’m particularly interested in your take on this. But anyone is free to comment here.

Do attorneys typically like cameras inside courtrooms? How do cameras and live coverage change the way a case is presented? What are the positives and negatives of allowing cameras inside the courtroom? Finally, doesn’t a trial of his political and historical magnitude serve the “public’s right to know?”

All comments on any of the above are welcome.

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