WHAT TO DO WHEN A COURT ROOM IS CLOSED

Provided by the
PENNSYLVANIA NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION
(717) 703-3000

If you are excluded from any court proceeding, you should do the following:

If you are in the courtroom, object to the closing (on the record, if possible) and ask for the right to be heard through counsel before the closed proceedings commence. A statement should be made similar to the following: "I am (name), a reporter for (newspaper or broadcaster.) On behalf of both myself and my (paper or station), I would like to note an objection to the closure of (or motion to close) this proceeding to the public and press, and request an opportunity to be heard through counsel."

If asked for the basis of your objection, state:

"I understand that the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States (and the Constitution of Pennsylvania, If in state court) affords the public a right to attend court proceedings. At the very least, the law requires that a hearing be held, with the press given an opportunity to participate, prior to closure. These arguments can best be made by counsel, and I request that our counsel be afforded an opportunity to be heard."