Michael Turner
Check the summons and the court’s official website before leaving; most local and federal courthouses require all personal items to pass through X-ray screening at the public entrance and enforce limits on bag size and contents.
Typical permitted items: government-issued ID, the summons paperwork, prescription medications in original containers, a slim wallet, and a single small electronic device kept powered off or silenced while inside the courtroom.
Commonly prohibited items: firearms, pocket knives, pepper spray, large liquid containers, vaping devices, and any object security staff deem a potential threat. Possession of banned items may result in denial of entry or referral to law enforcement.
Contact the clerk’s office ahead of arrival if transporting larger gear is unavoidable; many courts will advise on temporary storage options or special entry procedures. Arrive 30–45 minutes early to allow time for registration and security screening.
Practical tip: leave nonessential belongings at home or in a locked vehicle, carry medical documentation for supplies, and place small items in a clear pouch for faster processing. Keep prescriptions in original bottles and have a copy of any supporting medical notes.
How to check a courthouse’s bag policy before a court appearance
Call the court clerk’s office at least 48 hours before the reporting date to confirm the facility’s bag policy and on-site storage options.
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Search the official court website for specific pages: “Visitor Information,” “Court Security,” “Local Rules” or an FAQ. Look for explicit dimensions (example common limits: 14 × 14 × 6 in / 35 × 35 × 15 cm) and wording about clear-bag requirements or prohibition of large bags.
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When speaking with the clerk, provide the case number and date of appearance; ask these concrete questions:
- Which types of bags are prohibited?
- Are temporary lockers or checked-item storage available on-site?
- Is there a written policy that can be emailed or downloaded?
- Are medical devices or prescription medications exempt, and what documentation is required?
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Inspect the summons packet or notice for printed security instructions; many courthouses include a one-page “visitor rules” insert with item lists and arrival-time recommendations.
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Check the court’s social media or local government pages for temporary security advisories (holiday schedules, special sessions, or high-profile cases often trigger stricter controls).
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For medical or accessibility needs, contact the court’s ADA coordinator by phone and request an accommodation in writing. Provide a physician’s note or prescription; standard lead time is 3–7 business days for documentation processing.
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Plan alternatives based on confirmed policy: use a small clutch or clear pouch within stated size limits, leave larger items in a locked vehicle (verify courthouse parking rules), or arrange short-term storage off-site. If uncertain about terminology on the website, cross-check policies and FAQs and follow links such as which of the following statements about transmembrane proteins is correct for an example of verifying external references.
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On the day of the appearance, arrive 45–60 minutes early to allow time for screening and possible item processing; if access is denied, request a written citation of the policy and contact information for a supervisor.
What items in a bag are commonly prohibited at courthouse security
Leave weapons, explosives and chemical irritants out of any personal bag; security will confiscate such items and deny entry.
Firearms, edged and impact weapons
Firearms (loaded or unloaded), ammunition, magazines and firearm parts that can be assembled into a working gun are universally banned from court facilities.
Knives and blades – including pocketknives, switchblades, box cutters, multitools with blades, razor blades and large scissors – are routinely prohibited regardless of blade length.
Blunt instruments and martial items such as batons, clubs, brass knuckles, stun batons and sword-like objects will be confiscated.
Chemicals, tools, media and recording gear
Chemical agents: pepper spray, mace, tear-gas canisters, aerosol irritants and similar self-defense sprays are not allowed.
Explosives and flammables, including fireworks, ammunition primers, lighter fuel in bulk, compressed gas canisters and improvised explosive components, are banned.
Tools and construction items – large screwdrivers, wrenches, pry bars, drills and utility knives – are treated as potential weapons and usually prohibited.
Recording and transmission devices: dedicated video cameras, audio recorders, and in some courtrooms portable electronic equipment that records or transmits (including some wearable cameras) may be restricted; smartphones are often allowed through screening but may be disallowed inside the courtroom during proceedings.
Prohibited personal or household items: broom handles, selfie sticks, large folding umbrellas, sporting equipment (bats, clubs), and chains are frequently refused at entry.
Medications and medical devices should be kept in original packaging and declared at the checkpoint; syringes and sharps require prior notification and may need supporting documentation.
If an item is confiscated, expect property-handling procedures and possible retrieval only after the visit or via an administrative process. Store restricted items in a locked vehicle or leave them at home before arrival.
How to pack a courthouse‑friendly bag: size and item checklist
Select a compact soft-sided bag no larger than 30 x 25 x 13 cm (12 x 10 x 5 in) and keep packed weight under 2.5 kg (5 lb).
Size, construction and handling
Preferred dimensions fit under a courthouse seat and through screening trays. Choose nylon or canvas with minimal metal hardware; avoid wheeled or framed luggage. One main compartment plus a front zip pocket speeds security checks. Use a single crossbody strap or short tote handles for hands-free movement during entry and seating.
Pack heavy items low and towards the center to maintain stability and avoid bulk that must be checked. Keep overall thickness under 8 cm where possible so the bag lays flat on a screening conveyor.
Item checklist and packing order
Place identification and the summons packet in the outermost zip pocket for immediate retrieval. Medications and medical documentation go in the top-access pocket. Electronics should be easily removable and stored in a dedicated sleeve to simplify X-ray procedures. Keep liquids empty until past security.
| Item | Pack? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Government photo ID | Yes | Visible and easy to grab from outer pocket |
| Summons or court paperwork | Yes | Original and one copy in a clear folder |
| Wallet with cash/parking change | Yes | Small bills and a public-transport card recommended |
| Prescription medications | Yes | In labeled containers; keep dose for the day in hand-access pocket |
| Cell phone | Yes | Silenced; prepare to power off if requested |
| Portable charger | No | Some courthouses restrict external batteries; check local rules |
| Reusable water bottle (filled) | No | Carry empty to pass screening, refill after entry |
| Small sealed snack (single-serve) | Yes | Non-perishable, low-odor packaging |
| Notebook and two pens (black ink) | Yes | Compact size; pens in exterior pocket for quick access |
| Large electronics (laptop/tablet) | No | Leave in vehicle or at home unless necessary; a small tablet may be allowed if removable |
| Keys and small personal items | Yes | Keep on one keyring; avoid bulky keychains that set off detectors |
On-site storage and retrieval options when security refuses a personal bag
Request temporary on-site storage from courthouse security at the screening point and obtain a numbered claim ticket or wristband before leaving the screening area; present government photo ID at drop-off.
Available storage types and standard terms
Rentable lockers: small (12×8×16 in), medium (15×12×30 in), large (18×18×36 in). Typical fees: $0–$5 per use; some courthouses waive fees for panel participants. Lockers release upon presentation of the matching ticket and ID; overnight holds require property-room approval.
Property room / staffed checkroom: used for oversized items, coats, or items unsuitable for lockers. Items are logged with date/time and staff initials. Prohibited for storage: weapons, open containers of liquids, hazardous materials, items subject to active evidence holds.
Officer-held custody: applied when items present potential evidentiary value or violate storage policies. Retrieval may require approval from the supervising officer or sheriff’s office and can be delayed pending case-related restrictions.
Retrieval procedure and practical safeguards
Keep the claim ticket secure and present the same ID used at drop-off. Inspect seals, locks, and item condition in the presence of staff and photograph any discrepancies. Ask staff to initial a short condition checklist when handing over high-value items.
Report missing or damaged property immediately and request an incident report number. Submit a written claim to court administration within the timeframe printed on the receipt; common dispute windows run 10–30 days. For items held as potential evidence, direct communication with the sheriff’s property unit or prosecuting authority is required for release instructions.
If no on-site option exists: arrange short-term commercial luggage storage nearby ($5–$15/day), use a locked vehicle if allowed by parking rules, or transfer items to a trusted companion outside the security perimeter. If valuables cannot be left unattended, request a supervised escort to remove the item from courthouse grounds under staff guidance.
Accommodations for medical supplies, baby items, and work devices
Immediate recommendation
Notify the court’s ADA coordinator and security unit at least 7 business days before the reporting date and submit supporting documents (physician’s note, prescription labels, employer letter) via the clerk’s office email or fax; carry a printed copy of any accommodation approval when arriving at the courthouse.
Documentation and specifics to provide
Medical: physician letter should list diagnosis, specific items needed (e.g., insulin, syringes, inhalers, ostomy supplies), approximate daily quantity, and whether a visual inspection is acceptable instead of X‑ray; include prescription bottles or printouts from the pharmacy showing current prescriptions. Infant items: note child’s age, feeding schedule, and items required for the court period (diapers – estimate per hour, formula or expressed milk with dates on containers, bottles, spare clothing). Work equipment: employer letter on company letterhead stating job title, dates/times of court service, why remote work or rescheduling is infeasible, and a list of required devices (laptop model, power adapter, external drives). Include contact information for the issuing clinician or employer for verification.
Timing and submission: requests submitted fewer than 72 hours before the appearance increase the chance of delay; include the summons/case number and follow up by phone to the clerk if no confirmation within 48 hours.
Screening, packing and security handling
Medications and medical devices: keep medications in original containers when possible; pack only the quantity needed for the scheduled service plus a 24–48 hour margin; syringes/insulin supplies should be in a hard case and accompanied by prescription documentation; implanted devices or pumps should be accompanied by an implant card or clinician note. Ask security for a hand inspection in lieu of X‑ray where radiation may affect the item. Carry sharps disposal instructions or a small certified sharps container if removal will be required.
Infant items: label formula/breast milk containers with name and date; transport milk in a soft insulated bag with gel ice packs (not loose ice); bring a sealed spare bottle and a small changing kit; breast pumps and batteries/chargers are usually screened and may require declaration. When formula is powdered, include measuring utensils and sealed water bottles rather than pre‑mixed large volumes.
Work devices and data protection: minimize devices – bring only the laptop/tablet/phone strictly required; remove unnecessary external drives and SD cards; enable full‑disk encryption (BitLocker or FileVault), set a strong lockscreen password, and log out of accounts before arrival. Be prepared to power on devices during screening; carry a charger and a printed employer letter explaining work necessity. Mark devices with contact information and consider a tamper-evident cable lock if planning to leave a device with court staff after obtaining explicit written permission.
What to expect from courthouse lockers, coatrooms, and lost‑and‑found
Use on‑site lockers or staffed coatrooms for items larger than a briefcase; allocate 1–3 minutes for deposit, security scan, and receipt issuance. Typical locker dimensions: small 12×12×18 in, medium 18×14×22 in, large 24×18×36 in. Common fees: free to $5 per use, $1–$10 flat daily, or coin/token operation; card kiosks increasingly accepted.
Automated lockers issue either a paper receipt with numerical code or an electronic SMS/code linked to a phone number; staffed coatrooms provide a ticket and signature log. If given a physical key, keep the key on person; lost keys often trigger a lock‑change fee ($25–$150). Time limits commonly range from same‑day only to 72 hours for unattended lockers–overnight storage may be prohibited.
Surveillance and inventory: most facilities use CCTV and maintain a staff‑kept log for ticketed items. Liability is usually disclaimed by the court or facility; photograph valuables (front/back), record serial numbers, and attach a luggage tag with contact info before deposit. Lock suitcases with a small TSA‑style lock where permitted.
Lost‑and‑found holding periods vary by jurisdiction: small, low‑value items often held 30 days; electronics and high‑value property 90–180 days; perishable items typically disposed within 48–72 hours. Unclaimed property may be auctioned or destroyed after the statutory retention period. Retrieval requires government photo ID and the original claim ticket or a clear description with time/place of deposit.
Claim procedures for remote retrieval: many courthouses permit shipment of returned property if claimant provides a notarized release, copy of photo ID, and prepaid shipping label; administrative handling fees (commonly $10–$30) may apply. Emergency after‑hours retrieval usually needs security supervisor approval and will require verified ID and explanation of urgency.
Accessibility and large items: staffed coatrooms are preferred for heavy trunks or academic loads; call the facility in advance for assistance and door access. For transporting heavy printed materials, consider reinforced luggage such as options reviewed in best luggage for books. For compact rain protection that stores easily in lockers, see best heavy duty umbrella blunt metro travel umbrella.
When filing a claim at lost‑and‑found, present government ID, matching ticket or detailed item description, and photos if available. Expect identity verification and a brief property inspection before release. Keep the deposit receipt until final retrieval; photographing the receipt and locker number on a phone reduces disputes.
Minimize risk: label items with name and phone, photograph contents, separate small high‑value items (wristwatch, cash, jewelry) from checked property and retain them on person, and note locker number immediately on the receipt. If uncertain about permitted storage, contact the courthouse security office by phone prior to arrival.
