Objective

The main objective of the Court Security Officer (CSO) is to maintain a safe and secure environment for everyone in the building.  Everyone's cooperation is needed in order to achieve this very important goal.

Metal Detectors

When you enter the courthouse you will have to go through the metal detectors that are staffed by the CSO.  In order for this to be an efficient process, here are a few guidelines that will help you as you enter the building:

• No weapons of any type are allowed.

• No knives, scissors or anything with a cutting edge may be brought into the
  building.

• Cameras are only allowed to be used in certain areas (please see below for more information).

• Please remove jewelry (watches, large earrings, etc) before proceeding through
  the metal detector.  Place these items in your bags or place them in the
  trays provided by the CSO before you go through the metal detector.  This
  will save you time and prevent you from having to be scanned a second time
  with a hand-held wand.

• No aerosol containers (hair spray, shaving cream, etc.) are permitted.

This procedure is done as a matter of safety.  It is not meant to harass or exclude anyone.  Cooperation is the key to maintaining a secure atmosphere for everyone in the building.

Cameras & Recording Equipment

Although you are permitted to bring a camera into the courthouse, you may not use your camera in the courtrooms or other public spaces of the building unless you are here for a naturalization proceeding.  You also are not permitted to use your camera in any office unless you have received the express approval of the person in charge of that office.

You may use your camera in the courtroom only if you are specifically instructed that you may do so by the person presiding at the proceeding.

Courtroom Conduct

• Cell telephones, pagers, portable electronic games, portable laptop computers, Blackberrys/PDAs, etc., are permitted in the courthouse, but MAY NOT be used in courtrooms without the permission of the presiding judge or in jury rooms during deliberations. These items are subject to a security inspection.

• No food, beverages, or chewing gum are permitted inside the courtrooms.
• Please keep in mind you are entering a federal district court. You should dress in an appropriate manner.