A family friend is going to court this week

[pennylane100]

She is going to attend a hearing for a continuance in the trial of a man charged with sexual abuse of several women in the area. I would appreciate any legal info on a couple of questions. Can she legally video inside or outside the courthouse as he arrives. He is out on bail. Also, is there any way she could see his mugshot?

This has traumatized her and while I am not sure she should attend the hearing as it will be short and uneventful, a continuance will be granted and he will be in and out in a very short time, she wants to get a look at him. However, I was wondering if at any time before and after the actual courtroom appearance, would it be OK to video him. Also, how are mugshots made available, are they public record.? Thanks in advance for any advice.

[Warpy]

1. If you're in the US, mug shots are public record

Video tape of his arrival might be OK, don't know if she will be challenged to produce a press pass. Forget it inside the courthouse. Maybe a surreptitious cell phone shot will do and not get the phone confiscated and herself shown the door.

If I wanted to see a mug shot, I'd probably start with either the local cop shop or the local clerk of court's office. They should be able to point the way.

ETA: Mug shots are public record unless they are of juveniles.