Pilot program allows cell phones in handful of Del. courthouses

DELAWARE – Delawareans are now allowed to bring their cell phones into a small handful of courthouses, thanks to a new pilot program. Since 2005, cell phones and personal electronic devices have been prohibited from the First State’s courthouses, unless special permission is given.

But now, a handful of courthouses across the state are allowing the devices inside. Those locations include the Family Court, and Justice of the Peace Courts #3 and #17 in Sussex County. The pilot program is being overseen by a Judicial Branch committee, headed by Chief Justice Collins J. Seitz, Jr. and Family Court Chief Judge Michael K. Newell.

Director of Legal Affairs for Delaware Family Courts Addie Asay says she’s hoping to see the pilot program prove successful. Asay explains that it could be especially beneficial to those who are representing themselves in court. “The public’s use of cell phones has really evolved since 2005. There’s really been an increased reliance that people have on their cell phones, peoples’ inability to have them with them on a regular basis presents burdens,” she said.

There’s no end date for the pilot program just yet. But, the committee overseeing it will collect feedback in order to make recommendations for the future.