(Annapolis, MD - October 2, 2007) The Maryland Judiciary has established a work group to study the appropriateness, cost, and utility of allowing extended media coverage (including audio-visual recording and broadcasting) of state criminal proceedings. The work group will hold a public hearing on Monday, November 5, 2007, at 6:00 p.m., at the Judicial Education and Conference Center, 2009D Commerce Park Drive, Annapolis, Maryland.

The purpose of the hearing is to allow public comment on whether the recording or broadcasting of specified criminal proceedings should be permitted, in whole or in part, in Maryland. Written testimony can also be submitted. The work group will report its findings to the Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals, the Chief Judge of the District Court, and the Chair of the Conference of Circuit Court Judges.

Anyone wishing to testify before the committee must fax a request to testify to the Court Information Office at 410-974-5291, no later than October 29, 2007, to schedule an appearance. Please include your name or group/organization's name, address and telephone number. Written comments should be submitted on or before November 12, 2007, directed to the Court Information Office, Robert C. Murphy Courts of Appeal Building, 361 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis, MD 21401.