(AP) — A judge says jurors in the trial of the suspect in the Colorado theater shooting last year will be allowed to ask questions of witnesses.

Defense attorneys for James Holmes had objected to jurors asking questions.

However Judge Carlos A. Samour Jr. ruled Tuesday that he would allow written questions to be submitted, with safeguards to defend against objectionable questions and to protect Holmes’ rights. For instance, attorneys for both sides will be consulted before a question is asked, and they can object to questions outside the presence of jurors and the witness.

Holmes has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to more than 160 counts including murder and attempted murder. He is accused of killing 12 people and injuring 70 at an Aurora movie theater July 20, 2012.