Michael G. Thomas

South Carolina Rule 605 generally prohibits courtroom broadcasting, televising, recording, and photography unless an exception or presiding-judge authorization applies.

the broadcasting, televising, recording, or taking photographs in the courtroom and areas immediately adjacent thereto during sessions of court or recesses between sessions is prohibited

South Carolina Rule 605 permits the presiding judge to authorize electronic or photographic means for evidence presentation, record preservation, or judicial administration.

A presiding judge may authorize the use of electronic or photographic means for the presentation of evidence

South Carolina Rule 605 requires media representatives to give reasonable notice to the presiding judge when requesting courtroom coverage.

Media representatives must give reasonable notice to the presiding judge of a request to cover a proceeding.

South Carolina Rule 612 authorizes the Supreme Court to provide by order for courts to use remote communication technology for proceedings.

the Supreme Court of South Carolina may provide for the use of remote communication technology by the courts of this State to conduct proceedings

South Carolina's statewide order prohibits photographing, recording, or streaming live, virtual, or broadcasted court proceedings unless the presiding judge specifically authorizes it under Rule 605.

taking still photographs, recording (visual or audio), or streaming of any live, virtual, or subsequently broadcasted court proceeding is strictly prohibited unless specifically authorized by the presiding judge pursuant to Rule 605