An Illinois Supreme Court order allows for Extended Media Coverage (aka cameras in the courts) in every circuit across the state. This 2026 order replaces, modernizes and expands the Supreme Court’s prior order from 2016 that made Extended Media a permanent program.
The Supreme Court’s order allows those meeting the definition of “News Media” to use video cameras, still cameras, audio recording devices, and other technology to record certain proceedings with a judge’s approval. This comes after decades of effort on the part of INBA and other journalism organizations.
Here are several resources available for journalists regarding Extended Media Coverage [EMC]:
- Illinois Supreme Court policy on EMC
- Circuit Chief Judges and Administrative Staff contacts
- Forms for EMC requests, objections, orders, and more
Journalists can file their EMC requests themselves or through a circuit’s Media Coordinator, if one exists. You can check the INBA’s EMC Media Coordinator contact list. Journalists can contact the Court Media Liaison in their circuit for more information.
INBA can also help facilitate meetings with area media representatives, judges and court Administrators. Please get in touch if you have any questions or concerns while covering your courts. If you have any questions, or need the INBA’s help, e-mail Cameras/Mics in the Courts Committee Chair Ryan Denham or INBA President Jason Piscia.