Colorado’s highest courts are taking a temporary step to protect the integrity of criminal trials. Chief Justice Monica Márquez issued Chief Justice Directive 26‑01, which places a 90‑day statewide pause on livestreaming criminal proceedings in state trial courts.
Why the pause?
The Judicial Department says the pause is needed to address growing problems that have emerged over the past two years. Officials cite the misuse of livestreamed court content and repeated disruptions to virtual courtrooms as primary concerns. By suspending livestreams, the department hopes to develop stronger safeguards that will preserve defendants’ rights, protect victims and witnesses, and maintain orderly proceedings.
Public access remains intact
Although livestreams will be halted, the public will still be able to attend criminal trials in person. Parties, victims and witnesses may continue to participate virtually under existing procedures, and the department will retain the ability to grant livestreams on a case‑by‑case basis when a judge determines it is appropriate. The directive merely shifts the presumption away from livestreaming; it does not forbid judges from allowing it.
What will not change
The pause does not affect the Expanded Media Coverage provisions under Rule 3 of the Public Access to Information and Records Rules. Media outlets that have previously covered Colorado courts will still be able to request access under those rules, and the department will continue to work with journalists throughout the 90‑day period.
Next steps
During the suspension, the Judicial Department will develop recommendations to address the identified problems. An executive summary outlining the directive, its rationale, and planned actions is available on the department’s website. Officials have pledged to provide updates throughout the pause and to keep the public informed of any changes.
Local impact
For Coloradans who rely on virtual access to court proceedings—especially those in rural areas—this temporary measure may require a brief return to in‑person attendance. However, the department emphasizes that the goal is to ensure long‑term, reliable public access while safeguarding the rights of all participants.
Stakeholders, including attorneys, victim‑advocacy groups and media representatives, have been invited to submit feedback as the department refines its policies. The pause is explicitly described as temporary, with the expectation that a more robust, secure livestreaming framework will be reinstated once the identified issues are resolved.
For the latest information, visit the Colorado Judicial Department’s website or contact the department’s public information office.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
