The Charter, published jointly by Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS), the Media Lawyers Association and the Society of Editors, includes details on the rights of journalists to attend proceedings, take notes from court and use social media, access hearings remotely and the provision of information to reporters in relation to court lists and other documentation.
Launched at the Society’s Future of News conference in London, John Battle, Chair of the Media Lawyers Association and Head of Legal and Compliance at ITN said that the Charter was a “significant step” in reinforcing the rights of journalists to attend proceedings.
He said: “The Charter is a significant step forward. It brings together in one document the basic rights reporters have when reporting the courts. The Charter will help court reporters to carry out their vital role informing the public about the justice system. It is fundamental for justice, the rule of law and democracy that the courts are reported.”
Dawn Alford, Executive Director of the Society of Editors said: “The Society of Editors welcomes today’s launch of the Reporters’ Charter which will, no doubt, become an invaluable tool for journalists and court staff and ensure that the rights of reporters to attend court and receive documentation are better recognised and applied in practice. We congratulate the Media Lawyers Association on this achievement. The Society is delighted to endorse, promote and distribute the Charter and it will also be available to view on our website at www.societyofeditors.org.”
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