The Supreme Judicial Court's Judiciary-Media Committee Response Team
The Supreme Judicial Court's Judiciary-Media Committee created the Response Team in 1997 as part of its ongoing efforts to improve court and media relations and to increase understanding between the two institutions. It is designed to help diffuse or resolve conflicts or controversial issues requiring immediate attention, which occasionally arise between the judiciary and the media.
Comprised of nine members of the Supreme Judicial Court's Judiciary-Media Committee, the Response Team assists judges, journalists, and court personnel with questions or concerns usually related to matters involving courtroom access, court orders, documents, and media coverage.
The Response Team acts in an advisory capacity and provides advice during regular business hours. Prior to offering advice to the person requesting it, the Response Team member who has been contacted generally consults with another team member. All questions and advice are "off-the-record," and the advice given is not binding to those requesting it.
Designed by members of the SJC's Judiciary-Media Committee, the Response Team serves as a voluntary tool for judges, clerks and journalists. By offering a thoughtful perspective on an issue, the Response Team often helps to resolve perceived or actual conflicts between the courts and the media.