“In keeping with ethics rules, federal judges do not grant interviews about active cases. Judges “speak” through comments made in open court or through written decisions. Reporters must rely on the official case proceedings as their primary information source.” (Federal Court: Media Basics – Journalist’s Guide https://www.uscourts.gov/statistics-reports/federal-court-media-basics-journalists-guide)

Reporters can email for other questions. Please include your deadline and allow two business days for a response.

It is essential for reporters to understand and be able to translate legal jargon and procedures for readers or viewers. Please find a glossary at https://www.ca9.uscourts.gov/general/glossary/. If in doubt, please send an email to the Clerk of the Court.

Visit the District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands website under “Calendar." If the case is not listed on the calendar, you can access the docket sheet via PACER or at one of the public terminals located in the Clerk’s Office.

Yes, the courthouse is open to the public and most court proceedings are open unless sealed by law, rule, or court order.

Generally, no. Still and video photography in the courtroom are prohibited during court proceedings except for ceremonies and certain events. Media wishing to photograph, video or audio record an event should email their request at least three business days before the event to media@nmid.uscourts.gov.  See Local Rule 83.2 found in the court’s General Order 17-00004, page 90 for more information.

Certain civil and bankruptcy proceedings are available via remote audio access as explained in General Order 25-00003.

If you are not an attorney with a CM/ECF account then submit an AO 435 Transcript Order Form by email to qcclerks@nmid.uscourts.gov or over the counter to the Clerk’s Office. See Ordering Transcripts and Digital Recordings for more information. 

If available to the public, it can be found on PACER. See also the court’s Opinions and Decisions page. Ninth Circuit opinions can be found via their website at https://www.ca9.uscourts.gov/opinions/. There are some free opinions available at the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO).