Ontario Superior Court of Justice issues protocol on use of electronic devices in the courts

The protocol, effective on February 1, 2013, says that unless the presiding judge orders otherwise. electronic devices may be used by counsel (lawyers), licensed paralegals, law students and law clerks assisting counsel during proceedings, self represented parties and "media or journalists."

"Members of the public are not permitted to use electronic devices in the courtroom unless the presiding judge orders otherwise," the protocol says.

The use of the devices has to be in silent mode and in a discreet and unobtrusive manner, the protocol says.

The document does not define "media or journalists." This is sure to cause problems in the era of "citizen journalists."

The full text