(1) A “portable electronic device” is a mobile device capable of electronically storing, accessing, or transmitting information. The term encompasses, among other things, a transportable computer of any size, including a tablet, a notebook, and a laptop; a smart phone, a cell phone, or other wireless phone; a camera and other audio or video recording devices; a personal digital assistant (PDA); other devices that provide internet access; and any similar items.

(2) A “courthouse” includes all areas within the exterior walls of a court building, or if the court does not occupy the entire building, that portion of the building used for the administration and operation of the court. A “courthouse” also includes areas outside a court building where a judge conducts an event concerning a court case.

(3) Other Definitions: This rule incorporates other definitions found in Supreme Court Rule 122(b).

(1) In a Courtroom: In a courtroom, no one may use a portable electronic device to take photographs or for audio or video recording unless that use is allowed under Rule 122.

(2) Outside a Courtroom: In areas of a courthouse other than courtrooms, no one may photograph or record an individual without that individual's express consent.

(3) Local Orders: By local administrative order, a court may adopt further reasonable limits on photography and audio or video recording in a courthouse that are not inconsistent with this rule or with Rule 122.

(1) Jurors: Jurors must turn off their portable electronic devices while present in a courtroom and while present in a jury room during the jury's deliberations and discussions concerning a case. Jurors may use their devices for allowable purposes during breaks.

(2) Witnesses: A witness must silence any portable electronic device while in a courtroom, and may use a device while testifying only with permission of a judge.

(1) Allowed Uses: Attorneys, parties, and members of the public may use a portable electronic device in a courtroom to retrieve or to store information, to access the Internet, and to send and receive text messages or information.

(2) Prohibited Uses: A portable electronic device may not be used, without permission of the court, to make or to receive telephone calls or for other audible functions while court is in session, and attorneys, parties, and members of the public must silence portable electronic devices while in the courtroom.

(3) Use of a Personal Audio Recorder: Attorneys, parties, and members of the public may use a personal audio recorder in a courtroom only as provided by Rule 122.