New rules on use of electronic devices in Ontario courtrooms

Effective February 1, 2013, Ontario’s Superior Court of Justice is implementing a new code of behaviour concerning the use of electronic devices in courtrooms. Under the Protocol on the Use of Electronic Devices in the Courtroom, certain individuals—including counsel, paralegals, law students and clerks, self-represented parties, and media or journalists—will be permitted to use electronic devices such as computers and smartphones in silent mode and in a discreet and unobtrusive manner, subject to certain restrictions.

Members of the public continue to be prohibited from using electronic devices in the courtroom unless the presiding judge orders otherwise.

Click here to view a copy of the Protocol on the Use of Electronic Devices in the Courtroom »