The Illinois Supreme Court has announced a new policy allowing cameras in trial courts on an experimental and limited basis. Chief Judge of the Tenth Judicial Circuit, Michael Brandt, thinks it can work. "I think it's embracing an openness that will be embraced statewide," Brandt tells 1470 WMBD.
Is Brandt worried attorneys and witnesses may grandstand in front of the cameras? "It's a concern and the question is whether it can be appropriately addressed," says Brandt.
"You never want to get into a situation where that does happen because that just masquerades the whole process rather than records it."
Peoria County State's Attorney Jerry Brady wants to make sure witnesses are protected. "There is language in the order talking about the typical sexual assualt caes," says Brady. "As long as there is complete protection for the victim, I'm certainly willing to address it or consider it."
Tazewell County State's Attorney Stu Umholtz also wants to make sure cameras and microphones are not distracting. "It's difficult enough to get 12 jurors to focus on what a witness is saying even then the squeaky courthouse door is open and closed during the
proceedings," says Umholtz.
Illinois has been just one of 14 states that don't allow cameras during criminal trials. Illinois has allowed cameras to be present
during Supreme Court and Appellate Court hearings since 1983.
It's still up to the chief judges, though, if they want to go along.
"It appears the new policy allows the Chief Judge to make an application (with the Supreme Court) and then follow specified procedures," says Brandt. "There's no reason not to make that application from the 10th Circuit's standpoint."
