In April of 2021, former President Donald Trump appeared in a Manhattan courtroom for his arraignment. However, the public was not able to witness it firsthand. While photographers were allowed in the room, video cameras were forbidden at the request of Mr. Trump’s legal team. This was due in part to New York’s strict laws regarding cameras in courtrooms, which are the most restrictive in the nation, according to a recent report by the Fund for Modern Courts.
New York’s ban on electronic video coverage of courtrooms dates back to the 1930s, but there was a period from 1987 to 1997 when cameras were allowed under certain circumstances. Despite the experiment generating few complaints, the state Legislature declined to make it a permanent law. This has resulted in a system that only allows camera access under narrow circumstances and at the judicial discretion.
The outdated restrictions on courtroom cameras in New York need to be changed. In a post-pandemic world where many public meetings are recorded and livestreamed, there is no reason for courtrooms to be shrouded in secrecy. The public should be able to see the day-to-day workings of our legal system, not just the high-profile cases.
The case involving former President Trump is an extraordinary example, but changing the law for one specific case is not recommended. The loosening of the restrictions on courtroom cameras should have happened long ago. By allowing cameras in courtrooms, it would enable accountability for judges, attorneys, and other court officials, and prevent instances of prosecutorial misconduct or other wrongdoing.
It is time for New York to catch up with other states and permit cameras in courtrooms. The world should have been able to see Mr. Trump’s court appearances, but the public should also have access to the courtrooms that make up the foundation of our legal system. There should be nothing to hide.
