A courtroom electronics ban went into effect across the First Judicial District toward summer’s end. Public opinions vary, as do possible exemptions for journalists
- Corinne Saunders
- 7 days ago
- 7 min read
A freestanding sign outside the Dare County Justice Center in Manteo on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, informs people that phones are not allowed in the courtroom or clerk of court office. (Photo by Corinne Saunders)
By Corinne Saunders
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MANTEO — A courtroom electronics ban went into effect across the seven-county First Judicial District toward summer’s end for both superior court and district court settings.
Members of the public at the Dare County Justice Center in Manteo the week of Dec. 8 expressed varying opinions about the ban, and Outer Banks Insider had distinct experiences with exemption requests.
The First Judicial District includes Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Pasquotank and Perquimans counties.
R. Andrew Womble, senior resident superior court judge for the First Judicial District, signed and entered the electronics ban order for all superior court sessions on Aug. 20.
Robert P. Trivette, chief district court judge for the First Judicial District, signed and entered the electronics ban order for all district court sessions on Sept. 10.
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