Can I text in the courtroom?

Last revised January 04, 2024

The Policy on Use of Electronic Devices in Courtrooms, discusses the permitted and prohibited use of electronic devices in courtrooms of the Court of Appeal, the Supreme Court and the Provincial Court of British Columbia. 

Permitted Use of Electronic Devices in the Court of Appeal

In a courtroom of the Court of Appeal, any person may use an electronic device to transmit or receive text in a discreet manner that does not interfere with the proceedings.

Permitted Use of Electronic Devices in the Supreme Court and the Provincial Court

In courtrooms of the Supreme Court and of the Provincial Court:

1. accredited media; and
2. lawyers who are members of the Law Society of British Columbia,

may use electronic devices to transmit and receive text in a discreet manner that does not interfere with the proceedings.

Restrictions

An electronic device may not be used in a courtroom:

1. in a manner that interferes with the court sound system or other technology;
2. in a manner that interferes with courtroom decorum, is inconsistent with the court functions, or otherwise impedes the administration of justice;
3. in a manner that generates sound or requires speaking into the device;
4. to take photographs or record video images except as permitted in this policy;
5. to audio record or digitally transcribe the proceedings except as permitted by this policy.

Anyone using an electronic device to transmit information from a courtroom has the responsibility to identify and comply with any publication bans, sealing orders, or other restrictions that have been imposed either by statute or by court order.