Courthouse Security
The bailiffs and courthouse security deputies are directly responsible for the security of the judges, maintaining order in the five courtrooms located in the courthouse. Their duties include monitoring video cameras strategically placed throughout the building, guarding of prisoners who have been brought to the courthouse for trial, monitoring and controlling the numerous security doors throughout the building which are locked and unlocked with electronic locks, and manning the metal detectors at the entrance to the building. Most of these duties are carried out from a control room in a secure area of the building.
The following items will be permitted to be brought into the courthouse, but will have to be secured in a provided locking pouch that can only be accessed by Courthouse personnel:
A personal laptop
A tablet
A mobile telephone
An electronic calendar
An electronic book reader
A smart watch
Please take a few moments to review the Judge’s Order, available here and on our website, before your visit.
Please remember: The following items are NOT permitted inside the courthouse unless specific written permission has been granted by a presiding judge before you come to the courthouse:
Cameras
Video cameras
Audio or video recording equipment
Recording devices, including smart glasses, that are not otherwise a component of a portable electronic device
Reviewing the policy before you arrive will help ensure a smooth and efficient entry into the courthouse.
Here is a link to what you will need to do upon coming into the Courthouse with the approved devices and prior to leaving: https://vimeo.com/1106260603
The following items are prohibited from the Courthouse:
- Guns
- Sharp objects including knives of any sort, razors, box cutters, scissors, sewing/knitting needles, fingernail files or any tool or object deemed by the sheriff’s staff or judges to be a possible weapon
- Mace and chemical spray
- Cameras, unless approved by the Judge
- Recording devices/radios, unless approved by the Judge
- Cell phones are not permitted inside the Courthouse
For any further information, please contact the Sheriff’s Office, Courthouse Security Division at (757) 890-4195.
RESOURCES
Code of Virginia
Virginia State Bar