Overview
The DC Courts are committed to fairness, transparency, and public service. This page provides access to court-wide policies that support efficient operations and equal access to justice.
These rules help protect the rights of everyone and make sure the court is a respectful and fair place for all. Whether you're here for jury duty, a hearing, or to support someone else, following these guidelines helps us serve the community better.
Public Code of Conduct
To maintain a safe, respectful, and orderly environment for everyone, the Code of Public Conduct outlines expected behavior in court spaces, including courtrooms, lobbies, waiting areas, and public service counters.
This policy helps ensure that all court users—whether they are parties in a case, jurors, witnesses, or visitors—can participate in court business without disruption, intimidation, or harassment.
When you come to court, please:
- Be respectful to others.
- Follow directions from court staff and security officers.
- Speak in a calm and polite voice.
- Do not yell, curse, or threaten anyone.
- Do not take pictures or videos unless you have permission.
- Wear clothes that are appropriate for court.
- Stay quiet and calm while in courtrooms.
If someone breaks these rules, they may be asked to leave the courthouse.
Judicial Code of Conduct
Judges at the DC Courts must follow special rules called the Judicial Code of Conduct. These rules ensure our judiciary is fair, independent, and impartial so that people trust the courts and believe that they will be treated fairly.
Judges must:
- Be fair and treat everyone the same.
- Be polite and respectful to everyone in court.
- Make decisions based only on the law and the facts.
- Not let personal beliefs or friendships affect their decisions.
If a judge breaks these rules, they could be disciplined.
Electronic Devices Policy
To keep the courthouse safe and respectful for everyone, the DC Courts have rules about using electronic devices like phones, tablets, laptops, and smartwatches.
These rules help make sure courtrooms stay quiet and people can focus on their cases. They also protect privacy and prevent people from recording others without permission.
Please follow the court’s rules when using any device in the building. Some devices may need to be turned off or stored during your visit.
Building Use Policy
Our court buildings are important places where people come to solve legal problems, attend hearings, and get help with court services.
Key rules include:
- Admission to Property. Access to court buildings is limited to individuals with official business. Visitors are required to pass through security screening.
- Preservation of Property. Damaging or defacing court property is prohibited. This includes writing on walls, damaging furniture, or any other form of vandalism.
- Conforming with Official Signs and Directions. Everyone must follow posted signs and follow instructions from court personnel.
- Prohibited Items. Weapons, explosives, and other dangerous items are not allowed in court buildings.
- Conduct. Disruptive behavior, including loud talking, inappropriate language, or any actions that interfere with court proceedings, is not permitted.
- Photography and Recording. Taking photos or recording inside court buildings is generally prohibited unless authorized.
Questions about policies?
Contact the Executive Office at (202) 879-1700
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