Officers and judges may not bar press or public from open court hearings
Judicial officers and police may not keep the press or public out of a courtroom or other place where an open court proceeding is held, except as needed to keep order. Violations may bring civil penalties under the state civil rights law.
Who it affects
Judges, court officers and police, and reporters and the public
When
This law takes effect on January 1, 2027. California laws take effect on January 1 of the year after they are signed, unless the law says otherwise.
- : Signed into law
- : This law takes effect
Official text
California AB 1544: Court proceedings: media access.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.