(a) Personal computers may be used for notetaking in a courtroom. If the judicial authority finds that the use of computers is disruptive of the court proceeding, it may limit such use. No other electronic devices shall be used in a courtroom unless authorized by a judicial authority or permitted by these rules.
Section 1-10.Possession of Electronic Devices in Court Facilities
Current through August 12, 2025 (2026 Practice Book edition) · Last verified July 9, 2026
In one sentenceThis rule allows personal computers for notetaking in the courtroom, subject to limits if disruptive, bars other electronic devices unless authorized, and leaves broader device policy to the chief court administrator.
Full Text of Section 1-10
(b) The possession and use of electronic devices in court facilities are subject to policies promulgated by the chief court administrator. (P.B. 1978-1997, Sec. 7B.)
Amendment History
(Amended June 20, 2005, to take effect Oct. 1, 2005; June 26, 2006, subsection (b) extended for a one year period commencing Oct. 1, 2006; amended June 29, 2007, to take effect Jan. 1, 2008; June 29, 2007, subsection (b) extended for a one year period commencing Oct. 1, 2007; amended June 30, 2008, to take effect Aug. 1, 2008.)
Plain-English Summary
Section 1-10 addresses electronic devices in court facilities. Under subsection (a), personal computers may be used for notetaking in a courtroom. If the judicial authority finds that computer use is disrupting the proceeding, it may limit that use. No other electronic devices may be used in a courtroom unless a judicial authority authorizes them or the rules permit them.
Subsection (b) states that possession and use of electronic devices in court facilities more broadly are subject to policies the chief court administrator promulgates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a laptop to take notes in court?
Yes, personal computers may be used for notetaking in a courtroom, though the judicial authority may limit that use if it finds the computer use disruptive.
Can I use my phone or other devices in the courtroom?
The rule bars electronic devices other than notetaking computers unless a judicial authority authorizes the device or another rule permits it.
Where can I find the full policy on electronic devices in court facilities?
Subsection (b) points to policies promulgated by the chief court administrator, which govern possession and use of electronic devices in court facilities beyond the notetaking-computer rule in subsection (a).
Source & verification. The section text is reproduced verbatim from the
official Connecticut Practice Book (Conn. Practice Book § 1-10). Prescribed by the Judges of the Superior Court of Connecticut (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 51-14). The plain-English summary is original and written by us. Last verified July 9, 2026. ·
Official source
Also known as: laptops in courtroomelectronic devices in courtcell phones in courtroomnotetaking on computer in courtchief court administrator device policy