About Court

Things you need to know

Everyone is searched before coming into the building – similar to airport style security.
You will have to go through a body scanner and have all bags checked so, bring as little as you can.
If you bring ANY tools, sharp objects (including tweezers), flammable items, glass perfume bottles, body sprays, nail files, scissors, mirrors or metal umbrellas they will be taken from you. If you have something taken from you, you will get them back when you leave, unless it can be classed as a weapon or a dangerous item (i.e. knives (this includes Stanley knives/work knives, crossbows etc.)
No drugs or alcohol on the premises.
No alcohol is allowed on the premises.
No smoking or vaping in these premises.
You will be asked to take a sip from any drink you bring into the building.
No Photos, Videos, Recordings of any kind are allowed, anywhere in the building.

You will have been told what time to attend court and you must be there at that time
There is NO guarantee that your case will be heard at that time, but you must still be there.
You may have to wait for several hours, there are lots of reasons for this – so please keep this in mind when planning to come to court.
If you need to collect you child from school or nursery, you may need to make plans for someone you trust to collect them.
Please let the Usher of your court room know if you have no one else to collect them, if they can help then they will. There is no guarantee that this will speed up the process though.

You will have been told what time to attend court and you must be there at that time
There is NO guarantee that your case will be heard at that time, but you must still be there.
You may have to wait for several hours, there are lots of reasons for this – so please keep this in mind when planning to come to court.
If you need to collect you child from school or nursery, you may need to make plans for someone you trust to collect them.
Please let the Usher of your court room know if you have no one else to collect them, if they can help then they will. There is no guarantee that this will speed up the process though.

Children under 14 are not allowed into the Court hearing rooms.
If you have no option but to bring a child(ren) with you, make sure you have a trusted person who can care for them when you have to go in. If you do bring your child or children to court and you have no-one with you to look after them, your case may be put off to another day.
Courts are NOT a good place to bring young children. Court buildings are not child friendly. People at court may be stressed or angry and may show feelings of aggression.
Long waits can be boring or distressing for young children. It may help to bring a favourite toy (something soft and quiet) or a book to keep them entertained.
There is no one at court who is allowed to care for your child/children whilst you are in the courtroom
If your childcare arrangements break down at the last minute and you cannot attend court, ring the court to explain

Bradford Magistrates Court: 01274 390111

Bradford Combined Court Centre: 01274 840274

If you bring someone to support you in court and they bring a young child, they will not be allowed into the court room with you.