Things to Know When Attending Court

Why You Might Be Asked to Attend Court

Court attendance is unfamiliar territory for most people. You may be called as a witness, summoned for jury service, attending as a defendant, or supporting someone else through their case. While the specific reason for your court visit will dictate certain preparations, there are common elements that apply to all attendees.

Courts follow formal procedures that can feel strange at first. Knowing what to expect beforehand can help you feel more settled on the day.

Before You Go

Check your paperwork carefully. Letters from the police, Crown Prosecution Service, or Jury Central Summoning Bureau will confirm the date, time, and location of your hearing. Courts run to tight schedules, and arriving late can create difficulties, though it is worth noting that delays sometimes occur that are beyond anyone's control.

If you have any documents relevant to your attendance, gather these together the night before. This might include identity documents such as a passport or driving licence, evidence you have been asked to bring, or correspondence about your case. Having everything in one folder or envelope makes the morning less stressful.

Think about what you will wear. Smart, tidy clothing is expected in court. You do not need formal business dress, but avoid anything too casual such as sportswear, flip flops, or clothing with offensive slogans. You may spend several hours waiting, so choose something comfortable as well as presentable.

Consider whether you want someone with you for support. Courts can feel intimidating, particularly if you have not been before. A friend or family member can sit with you in the waiting area and, in some cases, accompany you into the courtroom itself. The Witness Service provides free support to witnesses and victims attending court, especially if you do not have anyone available to accompany you. They can meet you on arrival, explain the process, and stay with you throughout the day.

If you have a disability or specific needs, contact the court in advance to arrange any necessary accommodations. Courts can often provide assistance such as hearing loops, wheelchair access, or additional support, but they need prior notice to make arrangements.

Try to avoid bringing children unless absolutely necessary. Court buildings are not set up for young children, and proceedings can be lengthy and unpredictable. Childcare arrangements will make the day easier for everyone.

If you are attending as a defendant or claimant, consider seeking legal advice beforehand. You may be entitled to legal aid depending on your circumstances, and organisations such as Citizens Advice can help you understand your options.

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.

Try our Court Preparation Checklist free, here on this site →

What to Expect on the Day

Arrive with time to spare. Security checks at the entrance can cause delays, particularly at busy courts. You will usually need to pass through a scanner and have bags checked. Each court has its own rules about prohibited items, but sharp objects are not permitted anywhere. Check with your specific court if you are unsure about what you can bring.

Recording equipment is not allowed inside court buildings. This includes cameras and video recorders. Using your phone to take photographs, film, or record audio in court is a criminal offence, and this applies throughout the building, not just in the courtroom itself. You can bring your phone for general use such as calls and messages, but keep it switched off or on silent once inside the courtroom.

Once through security, find the information desk or check the screens to locate your courtroom. Staff and ushers are generally helpful and can point you in the right direction. If you are a witness, let the usher know you have arrived so they can inform the relevant parties.

Waiting times vary. Cases sometimes start late or run over, so bring something to read or occupy yourself quietly. Most courts have cafes or vending machines, though the options may be limited.

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Conduct Inside the Courtroom

When your case is called, enter the courtroom calmly and follow any directions from the usher. You may be asked to sit in a specific place depending on your role in the proceedings.

Stand when the judge or magistrates enter or leave the room. In Crown Court, address a Circuit Judge as "Your Honour." If a High Court Judge is sitting, the correct form is "My Lord" or "My Lady." In Magistrates' Court, magistrates are traditionally addressed as "Your Worships," though practices can vary. If you are unsure, listen to how others speak and follow their lead.

Speak clearly when asked questions. If you do not understand something, it is perfectly acceptable to ask for clarification. Answer only what you are asked, and be honest. If you cannot remember a detail, say so rather than guessing.

Keep your phone switched off throughout proceedings. Talking, eating, and chewing gum are not permitted in the courtroom. These rules apply to everyone present, not just those directly involved in the case.

Finding Further Help

If you have been called as a witness and feel anxious about the experience, the Witness Service can arrange a pre-trial visit so you can see the courtroom beforehand. This is often available for vulnerable or intimidated witnesses and can make the actual day feel less daunting.

For practical information about specific court procedures, jury service, or what happens at different types of hearings, GOV.UK provides detailed guidance. Citizens Advice can also help if you have questions about your rights or responsibilities when attending court.

Preparation goes a long way. Understanding the process in advance will help you feel more confident and allow you to focus on the reason you are there.

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 →