VA HB872

Chief judges of Virginia district and circuit courts must establish policies governing possession and use of portable electronic devices by court visitors, including laptops, tablets, cell phones, smart watches, and e-readers.

Courts must allow visitors to possess electronic devices but may impose restrictions such as security screenings, designated use areas, silent mode requirements, and prohibiting use in courtrooms without judicial permission.

Certain individuals are exempt from visitor restrictions, including judges, attorneys with valid bar cards, law enforcement officers, probation officers, court reporters, and authorized government employees conducting official business.

Policies must ensure visitors bringing devices to present evidence can access them during proceedings, and courts cannot search or access data on visitors' devices during security screenings.

All policies must be prominently posted at courthouse entrances and on court websites, and devices used in violation of policies may be confiscated without court liability for damage or loss.