Proof Over Precedent

Episode 9: Cellphone Bans: Courthouse Nuisance or Necessity?

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Image by Courtney Chrystal, J.D. candidate, Harvard Law School

In this “Student Voices” episode of Proof Over Precedent, HLS student Joe Lieberman interviews classmate Andrew Reed on the implications of courthouse cell phone bans on access to justice, particularly as it relates to self-represented litigants. Though intended to maintain courtroom order and security, the bans often create more headaches for litigants having to secure their phones outside the courthouse; furthermore, Reed suggests, it can be an impediment to access to justice with some litigants missing hearings entirely due to the bans. The discussion touches on the following topics:

  • Impact of cell phone bans in courtrooms
  • Potential alternatives to cell phone bans
  • Opportunity for empirical studies to research the effect of cell phone bans in courthouses

    • Read the corresponding blog post.

    Speakers:

    • Andrew Reed, J.D. candidate, Harvard Law School
    • Joe Liberman, J.D. candidate, Harvard Law School

      • Share feedback and relevant topics you would like the A2J Lab to discuss: [email protected]

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        Proof Over Precedent cover art by Courtney Chrystal

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        Proof Over PrecedentBy Access to Justice Lab at Harvard Law School