Court Procedures Rules 2006

A person must not use an electronic device in a court room unless—

the person is—

a party to a proceeding before the court; or

a legal representative of a party to a proceeding before the court; or

a media representative; or

the person is permitted by the presiding judicial officer to use the device.

Unless permitted by the presiding judicial officer, a person mentioned in subrule (1) must not use an electronic device in a court room if use of the device—

interferes with the court recording system or other technology; or

in the opinion of the presiding judicial officer, interferes with courtroom behaviour, is inconsistent with the court’s functions, or otherwise impedes the administration of justice; or

generates sound or requires speaking into the device; or

records a photograph or video image; or

records or digitally transcribes the proceedings other than in accordance with this rule.

If a sheriff’s officer or another officer of the court reasonably believes that a person is using an electronic device in contravention of this rule, the officer may direct the person to—

leave the courtroom; or

give the electronic device to the officer until the person leaves the courtroom; or

allow the officer and the presiding judicial officer access to the electronic device to view any images or listen to any recordings; or

modify or delete the images or recordings on the electronic device as directed by the presiding judicial officer.

A person who contravenes this rule may be dealt with for contempt of court.