Defense Team For Tyler Robinson File Surprise Legal Motion in Kirk Case

In December, the judge ruled that both the defense and prosecution must notify media representatives when a hearing will be closed, but denied the media’s request to be granted formal party status in the case, ABC4 noted.

In March, Robinson’s defense team filed another motion seeking to bar cameras entirely from the courtroom, arguing that extensive media coverage has created bias and could interfere with his right to a fair trial, said the outlet.

They also argued that media coverage of the case has been aimed at sensationalizing the proceedings rather than serving a traditional journalistic purpose.

Attorneys on both sides in the case against Tyler Robinson have continued to dispute the role of media coverage in the courtroom.

But Graf ruled that cameras would be allowed in his courtroom for the April 17 hearing.

“In balance, the defendant has not provided a sufficient basis for the court to find that the interests favoring closure outweigh the interest favoring an open proceeding and the presumptive right to access,” Judge Graf said during Friday’s hearing. He further noted that while the April hearing would generally be open, portions might be closed to protect privacy and safety concerns.

The defense had until March 30, 2026, to file a redacted version of their motion to keep cameras out of the courtroom. This would let them make arguments about certain closures.

The ruling on Friday cited the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1981 decision in Chandler v. Florida, which said that having cameras in the courtroom does not automatically violate a defendant’s right to a fair trial.