Information For Media

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Access to Court Records

Most court records are now in electronic format. Therefore, the most convenient way for the media to obtain information from court records is through PACER, Public Access to Court Electronic Records.

Court employees are not authorized to express their opinions or make public comments about any matter before the Court to members of the media. The Court Administrator serves as the Court's public information officer (313) 234-5051.

Media Room

A room is available in the Theodore Levin U.S. Courthouse for use by the media. Representatives may bring in a small filing cabinet (with lock is preferred) and have a phone line installed - at the media outlet's expense. Media representatives wishing to use the media room (Room 212) should contact Court Services (313) 234-5055 to make the necessary arrangements.

Covering Federal Court

The Administrative Office of the United States Courts has developed the following publications to provide the media an introduction to the federal judicial system.

Understanding the Federal Courts

Provides an introduction to the federal judicial system, its organization and administration, and its relationship to the legislative and executive branches of the government

A Journalist's Guide to the Federal Courts

Helps reporters who cover federal district, bankruptcy, and appellate court to understand the cases the people, and the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are cameras and recording equipment allowed in the courthouse?

   Recording equipment is not permitted in the courthouse unless otherwise ordered by a judge. E.D.Mich LR 83.31(c) prohibits the use of cameras or any recording devices for radio, television, Internet, or other means in all courtrooms and any judicial proceeding.

   On rare occasions, a district judge may authorize, by written notice to the United States Marshal, the use of recording equipment for investitive, ceremonial, and naturalization proceedings.

2. Are laptop computers allowed in federal court facilities?

   Laptop computers are permitted in federal court facilities, but may not be used in any courtroom without written approval of the appropriate judicial officer.

3. Are cellular phones, pagers and beepers permitted in the courthouse?

   Cellular phones are not permitted in the courthouse by non-attorneys. Pagers and beepers are allowed, but must be programmed to an inaudible mode.

4. Who should be contacted regarding questions about arraignments?

   Information, requests or questions about arraignments are handled by the United States Attorney's Office at (313) 226-9100.

5. Who should be contacted for additional information?

   The Court Administrator serves as the Court’s public information officer (313) 234-5051.