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The Virginia Supreme Court has approved a model policy allowing the public to bring cellphones into courthouses with some restrictions.

The policy, which acknowledges the inconvenience of having to leave a phone in an unsecured location outside of a courthouse, is meant to be a guide for courthouses across the state.

A news release Friday said the justices believe the model policy strikes a balance between promoting access to justice and maintaining security and order in courthouses.

The justices note the widespread use of personal computers, tablets and smartphones.

“Policies barring electronic devices may prevent self-represented litigants or other court users from effectively presenting their cases, successfully accessing court resources or information, or communicating with others while in the courtroom,” the policy says.

Misuses of the devices in a courthouse would include unauthorized audio or video recordings that could be posted on social media; unauthorized communication with jurors or witnesses; and threats and intimidation directed at others.

Phones and other electronics would still require permission from a judge, who ultimately decides how they could be used in the courtroom.