by: The Rock River Times

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Supreme Court announced Jan. 25 it will begin allowing video and still cameras in some trial court proceedings. The announcement was made by Chief Justice Thomas Kilbride and was heralded by the Illinois Press Association (IPA) as a move that will allow more openness and transparency in the judicial branch of government.

“Allowance for cameras in all courtrooms is something that the Illinois Press Association has been seeking for many years,” said Dennis DeRossett, executive director of the IPA. “Illinois already allows cameras at the Appellate and Supreme Court level. So, it only makes sense that trial courts be included.”