BAR ASSOCIATION PLAN FOR CAMERAS WELL-AIMED

The Missouri Bar Association's Board of Governors proposed earlier this month that the state Supreme Court allow cameras and microphones in courtrooms. Speaking for the news media and the public they serve, we say, "Thank you." Missouri is clearly behind the times on this issue and needs to catch up. We encourage the high court to act positively on this proposal.

Along with only three other states, Missouri doesn't allow electronic coverage of its court proceedings. The reason for that is difficult to discern. It's not as if the matter has been debated and rejected philosophically; the Supreme Court has not rushed to address the issue and a state judges' group voted in November not to set up a committee to study the idea. Maybe the Bar Association's prodding will at least bring the idea forward for discussion.

Arguments can be made on both sides of this issue, so let them be made. We believe the good would far outweigh the bad. Detractors say cameras would be distractions in the courtroom, would lead to lawyers, prosecutors and judges showboating for the lense instead of exercising proper courtroom deportment. These things might happen in some courtrooms, but they wouldn't have to. If cameras are allowed in trials in 46 states, Missouri judges can surely gain an education on what has worked and what hasn't in those locales.

In addition, the Bar Association's proposal gives trial judges plenty of control on how the electronic media would function inside the courtroom; safeguards would be built in to ensure that justice does not get sidetracked while the public's right to know is being satisfied.

In making this argument in the past, we cited the example of ~C-Span and the opening of congressional sessions to televised coverage. The result of this has been a greater understanding by the American public about how these institutions operate. It is often tedious; at times, it is captivating. The point is that the public has an opportunity to look inside the process, no matter how regulated the view. We feel allowing cameras in the courtroom would enhance the public's appreciation for the judiciary.

The window on Missouri courts should be opened. Cameras and microphones should be given access to the proceedings. The Supreme Court should act favorably on this well-aimed Bar Association proposal.