The Designated Media Point of Contact for the Fifth Judicial Circuit
Jeffrey K. Fuller, ESQ.
Trial Court Administrator
Lake County Courthouse
550 West Main Street
Tavares, FL 32778-7800
Ph: (352) 742-4393
Fax: (352) 742-4370
One of the fundamental principles behind our legal process is the requirement that proceedings be conducted in open court. That means, that with only a few exceptions, all civil and criminal proceedings within our trial courts are conducted under the watchful eye of the people the system serves.
The Fifth Circuit Public Information Office serves as the primary contact for media representatives seeking information on the court and coordinates the news coverage activities. In order to assist with media accommodations in often-crowded courtrooms, members of the media wishing to cover a court proceeding should contact the Public Information Officer (PIO) in the county where the case is scheduled, prior to arrival in court:
Administrative Order Designating Media Point of Contact and Directions for Public Record Requests: Administrative Order No. A-2015-07-B
Courtroom Access
Unless otherwise specified by the presiding Judge, seating in the courtroom for members of the press is on a first-come, first-served basis. Members of the media are requested to dress appropriately. Food and drink is not permitted. Cell phones should be turned off or placed on silent.
Recording
Recording images of any kind is prohibited without prior approval. Fill out the Recording Request Form to request permission to record.
Media Parking
Media stations who plan on parking satellite trucks should contact the local PIO to ensure that they abide by parking in designated media areas.
Pooling
Pooling arrangements shall be the sole responsibility of the media.