iPads allowed in the Courtroom -- in the 6th

Sixth Circuit, that is. As far as I know, none of the California Court of Appeal Districts -- even the 6th District in the heart of Silicon Valley -- have a policy allowing computers or phones (is there a difference now anyway?) routinely. Instead, special permission must be sought. But in the Sixth Circuit, devices are now allowed, limited to counsel and for purposes of the argument. So, it's ok to use the iPad for an argument outline or to quickly find something in the record; but no internet surfing while waiting for your case to be called. In contrast, the Ninth Circuit has a pretty laid back electronics policy.