Trials aren’t like CSI or the Goodwife, said Clay Campbell, DeKalb County State’s Attorney. “They are much more complicated and less dramatic.”

For the first time in Illinois’ state history, people will be able to watch these judicial proceedings from the privacy of their own homes.

According to a press release, Thomas L. Kilbride, Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice, announced Tuesday that the Supreme Court approved a policy pilot project which would allow news cameras and electronic news recording devices in Illinois trial courtrooms.

“The policy is effective immediately and invites the Circuit Courts in the state to apply for approval from the Supreme Court to take part in the experimental program,” the press release stated. “Once a Circuit is approved by the Supreme Court, media may request to electronically cover eligible cases in that Circuit.”

Illinois used to be one of 14 states which didn’t allow cameras in trial courtrooms, or allowed them on such a restrictive basis that they were rarely used.

“The allowance of cameras in the courtrooms is a positive step and it provides citizens greater transparency in their legal system,” Campbell said.

There is a risk of losing control of the courtroom, especially in high-profile cases, said law professor Guadalupe Luna. However, by allowing cameras in courtrooms the public gets a “glimpse of the real world, the real art of what it’s all about,” Luna said.

By seeing real trials, citizens and students can learn more about their judiciary system, Campbell said.

According to the press release, a media coordinator must request extended media coverage at least 14 days in advance of the scheduled proceeding. No more than two video cameras and no more than two still photographers will be allowed in the courtroom.

This decision will hopefully instill some public trust into our judicial system, said State Rep. Robert Pritchard.

“The public pays for the court system and sometimes elects judges,” Pritchard said. “It’s a way of seeing how their elected officials and tax dollars are being used.”