Jeffrey M. Merrell

Missouri Court Operating Rule 16 requires advance approval for media equipment used for courtroom coverage and allows the judge to control the number and setup of media personnel and equipment.

Failure to obtain advance approval for equipment may preclude its use in the proceeding.

Missouri courtroom device use for media coverage is not generally permitted unless authorized by the operating rule, a local court rule, or the judge presiding in the proceeding.

No person may use any device capable of media coverage in a courtroom or court clerk's office unless specifically authorized

Missouri allows limited video and audio recording for media coverage under COR 16 technical limits, subject to judicial approval and courtroom controls.

Not more than one videographer, using a single device, shall be permitted in the courtroom during a judicial proceeding at any time.