Preparing for Court

Why You Might Need to Attend Court

There are several reasons you could find yourself at a court building. You might be called as a witness to give evidence, summoned for jury service, or required to attend a hearing related to a civil or criminal matter. Whatever brings you there, knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make the experience far less daunting.

Court proceedings follow set procedures, and understanding these in advance helps everything run more smoothly. Adequate preparation significantly reduces stress on the day of attendance.

Court Preparation Checklist

Going to court for the first time can be overwhelming. Tell us your situation and get a personalised checklist covering what to bring, what to wear, what to expect, and how to prepare.

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General Advice for Anyone Attending Court

Some basic rules apply regardless of why you are attending. Following these will help you avoid unnecessary problems and show respect for the court process.

• Check your paperwork carefully for the correct date, time, and court address. Courtrooms are often numbered, so make sure you know exactly where to go.
• Dress smartly and conservatively. You do not need to wear a suit, but aim for clean, tidy clothing. Avoid casual items like sportswear or flip flops. Some courts may have specific dress requirements, so check any guidance provided with your summons.
• Leave recording equipment at home. Filming, photographing, or recording inside a court building is not allowed and can result in serious consequences.
• Avoid bringing young children unless absolutely necessary. Some courts have facilities for those attending with children, but this is not universal. Contact the court in advance to check what provisions are available.
• Food and drink are typically not permitted in courtrooms. Try to have a meal before attending to avoid the need for food during proceedings.
• Speak only when asked to do so. Address the judge directly and clearly when responding to questions.
• Stay calm and attentive throughout. Fidgeting, chewing gum, or using your phone are generally considered disrespectful by the court.

Arriving early gives you time to find the right room, go through security, and settle your nerves. Most courts have metal detectors and bag searches at the entrance, so allow extra time for this. Certain items may be confiscated at security, so check the court's guidance beforehand about what you can bring into the building.

If you have a disability or require additional support, contact the court ahead of your visit to discuss accessibility arrangements and any assistance you may need.

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Preparing to Give Evidence as a Witness

Being called as a witness can feel intimidating, but preparation helps. You will usually receive a witness summons or a request from solicitors explaining when and where you need to attend.

Before your court date, go over any written statements you have provided. Refresh your memory about the events in question, as you may be asked detailed questions. You are allowed to read your statement before giving evidence, and in some cases you can refer to it while in the witness box.

If you have documents, photographs, or other materials that support your evidence, check whether these need to be submitted in advance. The solicitor who called you as a witness can advise on this.

Many courts offer a witness service run by Citizens Advice. Trained volunteers can show you around the building beforehand, explain what will happen, and provide support on the day. This service is free and available at most Crown Courts and many Magistrates' Courts. Contact the court or visit the Citizens Advice website to find out more.

If you feel anxious about facing the defendant or certain people in the courtroom, special measures may be available in some circumstances. These can include giving evidence from behind a screen or via video link. Special measures are typically granted for vulnerable or intimidated witnesses, primarily in criminal cases, and require a formal request to the court. Speak to the solicitor handling the case or the witness service about whether you might be eligible.

Jury Service and Other Reasons for Attending

If you have been called for jury duty, your summons letter will explain the process. You must attend unless you have a valid reason to be excused or deferred. GOV.UK provides general guidance on jury service, though specific details about expenses or deferral requests may vary between courts. Contact the relevant court directly for precise information.

For those attending court for their own case, whether civil or criminal, preparation is even more significant. If you have legal representation, your solicitor or barrister will guide you through what to expect. If you are representing yourself, consider seeking advice from a legal aid provider or a free legal clinic beforehand.

Whatever your reason for attending, take time to read any documents you have received and write down questions you want answered. Being prepared puts you in a stronger position and helps proceedings move forward without unnecessary delays.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Court Preparation Checklist lets you going to court for the first time can be overwhelming. Tell us your situation and get a personalised checklist covering what to bring, what to wear, what to expect, and how to prepare. Try it now →