Security checks at court: what to bring and what to leave at home
Short answer: Everyone who enters a court building is searched, much like at an airport. Bring your court letter and photo ID, and leave sharp objects and anything that could be used as a weapon at home. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before your hearing, because queues can be long.
Every court building in England and Wales has a security entrance, and you cannot avoid it, whether you are a judge, a witness or a visitor. Knowing what to expect makes the first ten minutes of your day much calmer. This guide explains what happens, what you can bring and what to leave at home. It is general guidance, and each court can set its own rules.
What to know in one minute
- You will be searched, and your bag will be scanned.
- You may walk through a metal detector, so remove coats, belts and metal items if you are asked.
- Sharp items and weapons are banned, even small ones.
- Queues can be long first thing in the morning.
- Staff are there to keep everyone safe, so be patient and polite.
Arrive early
Aim to be at the entrance at least 30 minutes before your hearing. For a Crown Court trial, or a busy day, allow longer. Our hearing day planner works out when to leave and can add a reminder to your calendar.
What to bring
Packing sensibly saves time at the door and makes the day easier:
- Your court letter, summons or notice, showing the court and time.
- Photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence.
- Contact details for your solicitor or the person who asked you to attend.
- Documents your solicitor has asked you to bring, in a folder.
- A phone and charger, because hearings often run late.
- Water and a small snack, as facilities inside can be limited.
- Something to read, since waiting is normal.
- Medication you need, in its original packaging.
What to leave at home
| Leave at home | Why |
|---|---|
| Knives, scissors, tools and anything sharp | Treated as weapons, even if small |
| Anything that could be used as a weapon | Not allowed in any court building |
| Large bags and luggage | Slow security and may not be stored |
| Glass bottles | Can be broken and used to hurt someone |
| Aerosols and sprays | Can be restricted for safety reasons |
| Cameras and recording equipment | Recording is not allowed without permission |
If you are not sure whether something is allowed, leave it at home or ask the court before you travel. Staff may take items away, and you may not get them back at the end of the day.
What happens at the entrance
- Queue outside, or in the entrance hall.
- Put your bag, coat and metal items into the trays.
- Walk through the detector, or be scanned with a handheld wand.
- Collect your things and go to the information desk or the list screens.
Security officers can search a bag by hand and can ask you to explain an item. They can also refuse entry to anyone who will not be searched.
Phones, photos and recording
You can usually bring a phone, but it must be silent in the courtroom. It is a criminal offence to take photographs or make recordings inside a court without permission. Journalists and legal professionals follow separate rules. Our guide for court reporters covers that.
If you have access needs
Contact the court before the day if you:
- Use a wheelchair or other mobility aid.
- Need an interpreter, or a sign language user.
- Have a condition that makes queues or searches difficult.
- Have an assistance dog.
- Feel very anxious about the process.
Courts can often arrange step-free access, a quieter entrance or someone to meet you. The Citizens Advice Witness Service can help witnesses and victims. See our witness guide.
Why courts have security
Courts bring together people who may be upset, anxious or in conflict, and so safety matters for everyone. Searches protect victims, witnesses, jurors, staff and defendants alike. They are routine, they apply to everyone, and they are not a sign that anyone suspects you of anything.
Tips to get through faster
- Wear shoes and clothing that are easy to take off, with few metal fastenings.
- Put coins, keys and phone into your bag before you reach the front of the queue.
- Have your letter and ID ready, but do not hold up the line while you search for them.
- Take only what you need, since fewer items mean a quicker scan.
- Be polite, because officers work hard and are there to help.
Common concerns
Will I be searched by hand?
Sometimes. Officers may use a handheld wand or ask to look inside your bag. If you would prefer a private area or to be searched by an officer of the same sex, or if you wear religious dress, you can ask. Courts have arrangements for this.
What about my valuables?
Leave unnecessary valuables at home. Courts are busy places, and there may be nowhere safe to leave bags. Keep your phone, wallet and papers with you.
Can I park nearby?
Parking varies a great deal between courts, and many city courts have none. Check your court’s page in our courts directory and plan for public transport if you can.
Professionals and jurors
Lawyers, probation officers and other professionals often have separate entrances with a pass. Jurors usually have a special entrance and instructions in their summons. If you are a member of the public, a witness or a defendant, you use the main entrance.
Supporters and visitors
Everyone is searched, including supporters and the public. If you are coming with someone, our guide to family members at court explains the rest. Visitors in the public gallery should read the public gallery guide.
If you will be late
Phone the court named on your paperwork and your solicitor as early as you can. Explain why you will be late, and give an estimated arrival time. Do not simply stay away.
After security
Once through, go to the lists to find your courtroom. Our guide to finding your courtroom explains how, and our Crown Court and magistrates’ court guides describe what comes next.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take my phone into court?
Usually yes, but it must be silent in the courtroom. You must not take photographs or record. Some courts ask witnesses or jurors to leave phones outside the room, so follow the instructions you are given.
Can I bring a bag?
Yes, small bags are normally fine and are scanned. Large bags, rucksacks and luggage can slow you down, and some courts have nowhere to store them. Pack light.
Can I bring food and drink?
A sealed bottle of water and a small snack are usually fine in the building, though not in the courtroom. Facilities inside can be limited, so bring what you need.
What if I have a medical condition or medication?
Tell the security officers and carry any medication in its original packaging, with a prescription if you have one. If you use a medical device, contact the court in advance.
What happens if I refuse to be searched?
Security can refuse you entry. If you are a defendant or witness, that can cause serious problems, so speak to the court in advance if you have concerns.