Courts Service considering ban on social media in courtrooms

A draft discussion paper on social media guidelines was circulated to the presidents of the Irish courts by the former Chief Justice of Ireland, Mrs Justice Susan Denham, a few months ago.

According to the Irish Independent, sources close to the process believe it is likely that courtrooms will ban instant messaging and social media except for accredited members of the media, who will have to accept guidelines setting out what they should and shouldn’t tweet.

The rules could be introduced by way of a practice direction, as this would be much faster than changing the rules of court.

A Courts Service spokesperson said: “The drafting of guidelines and a series of discussions are ongoing in relation to the use of social media in courtrooms. This has involved the presidents of the various courts.

“In the near future we will extend discussions to consult with the various professional bodies, other courts users, and nominated representatives of the media.”