Starting Monday, March 30, if you walk up to a Philadelphia courthouse wearing those shiny new Smart/META AI glasses, you are not getting past the door. The First Judicial District is expanding its long-standing crackdown on recording gear to explicitly include AI-powered eyeglasses that can capture audio or video, whether they are prescription or not. Show up with prohibited recording tech and you could be turned away, escorted out, and even looking at possible criminal trouble.
What the Ban Covers
According to a press release reported by FOX 29, the policy specifically calls out Smart/META AI eyeglasses with audio or video recording features. The ban applies across all First Judicial District courthouses, buildings and offices. The courts also use the update to remind the public that cameras, cell phones and other recording devices are already off-limits inside unless a judge or court office gives written permission.
Why the Courts Say It’s Needed
FJD Court Administrator Richard McSorely says the rule tweak is about keeping people safe and unrecorded while they do their civic duty. The move is intended to protect privacy and cut down on the chance that witnesses or jurors feel like they are being secretly filmed. McSorely said the change would “further enhance privacy measures” and help “lessen witness or juror intimidation,” according to FOX 29.
How the Rule Will Be Enforced
The First Judicial District, which oversees Philadelphia's Court of Common Pleas and Municipal Court, says anyone wearing or carrying banned devices will be stopped at the threshold or escorted out if they somehow get inside. From there, things can escalate quickly: violators could face contempt proceedings, arrest or prosecution under existing court and state rules. For courthouse locations and contact information, check the Philadelphia Courts.
Legal Implications
Recording inside a Pennsylvania courtroom is not just a bad look, it can land you in contempt with criminal penalties attached. State precedent distinguishes between civil contempt, which is meant to push someone to comply with a court order, and criminal contempt, which is punitive and can involve fines or jail time. Pennsylvania case law and commentary explain that criminal contempt usually involves set punishments and specific procedural protections for defendants; see Justia for background.
Practical Tips for People Headed to Court
If you have a court date coming up, your safest bet is to leave smart glasses and any other recording-capable devices at home. Bring only items you know are allowed. If you genuinely need a device for accessibility or to present evidence, get written permission from the court ahead of time and confirm details with the appropriate office using the contacts listed by the Philadelphia Courts.
