Wisconsin has clearly laid-out rules reporters must follow in covering trials and courts.  Are you familiar with them?

Who is the media coordinator in your area, and what is their role?

Can a judge tell you to move your camera or microphone?

Do you have to obey a judge’s order that you not photograph or record someone participating in a trial?

Can you interview a juror before a verdict has been reached in a trial?

This section of the R. Perry Kidder Broadcast News Resource Center will get you up to speed on covering court action in Wisconsin.  You’ll find a section which details the 12 Wisconsin Supreme Court rules for covering the courts in our state, and learn how to quickly find out who the media coordinator is in your area and why you need to deal with that person before you cover a trial.