Audio-Visual Coverage of Oles v. Houston

OPINION OF THE COURT

Lewis R. Friedman, J.

Whole Life Magazine (the applicant) has requested permission to take still photographs in the courtroom during the *1076trial of this and several related small claims actions. The application raises important questions that have not yet been discussed in the reported cases. During an "experimental” period, from December 1, 1987 through May 31, 1989, Trial Judges may permit "audio-visual coverage” of judicial proceedings. (See, Judiciary Law § 218, and implementing Rules of Chief Administrative Judge [22 NYCRR part 131; the Rule].) This case is apparently…