What you can bring to jury duty
You can bring a notebook and pen, your phone (though it will likely be collected during jury selection), a book or magazine for waiting periods, and any medications you need. You can also bring a lunch or snacks, though the courthouse may provide breaks to eat. Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes — you may be standing or sitting for hours. Bring your summons and any identification the court requested in your paperwork.
The specific rules vary by courthouse and judge. Some courts allow phones in the jury room during deliberations; others do not. Some provide a quiet space for jurors to rest; others do not. Call the phone number on your summons the day before or morning of to ask what the local practice is. The clerk can tell you whether you need to bring anything beyond your summons and ID.
Key Takeaways
- Bring your summons, a valid ID, any medications you need, and comfortable clothing with closed-toe shoes.
- Leave your phone at home or be prepared to surrender it during jury selection and the trial itself.
- Do not bring weapons, recording devices, reference materials about the law, or anything that could influence your judgment of the case.
- Call the courthouse the day before to confirm what items are allowed, since rules differ between courts and judges.
- Bring a book, notebook, or snacks for waiting time, but expect that some courthouses restrict what you can have in the jury room.
Why phones are usually not allowed during trial
Courts restrict phones during jury selection and the trial because they can distract you, allow you to research the case or parties involved, or let you communicate with people outside the courtroom. A juror who looks up the defendant's criminal history or reads news coverage of the case can taint the verdict. Even if you do not intend to use your phone, the judge wants to prevent the temptation and the appearance of bias.
Some courts allow phones in the jury room during deliberations, when you are deciding the verdict with other jurors. Others do not. The judge will tell you the rule for your specific case. If you rely on your phone for work communication or medical alerts, tell the judge during jury selection — they may allow you to keep it on silent and step out if needed.
Items you cannot bring to court
Do not bring weapons of any kind, including pocket knives, pepper spray, or firearms. Do not bring recording devices, cameras, or anything that could capture audio or video of the trial. Do not bring law books, legal references, or notes about how the law works — the judge will instruct you on the law, and you must follow that instruction, not your own research.
Do not bring anything that signals your opinion about the case before you hear the evidence. This includes clothing with political messages, religious symbols that could bias you, or items related to the defendant or plaintiff. Do not bring alcohol or drugs. Do not bring pets, except service animals that assist with a disability. If you have a service animal, mention it when you call the courthouse to confirm what to bring.
What to wear to jury duty
Wear clean, neat clothing that shows respect for the court. Business casual is standard — slacks or a skirt with a button-up shirt, or a modest dress. Avoid athletic wear, torn clothing, or anything with offensive language or images. Closed-toe shoes are important because you may need to move around the courthouse or stand for long periods. Avoid very high heels or shoes that are hard to walk in.
You do not need to wear a suit or formal dress unless the judge specifies it. The goal is to look like someone who takes the responsibility seriously. If you have religious dress requirements, wear them — courts accommodate religious practice. If you are unsure whether your outfit is appropriate, err on the side of formality.
Medications and medical needs
Bring any medications you take regularly, including prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, or inhalers. Bring enough for the full day, plus extra in case the trial runs longer than expected. Keep medications in their original labeled containers so security and court staff can see what they are.
If you have a medical condition that requires special accommodation — a cushion for sitting, frequent bathroom breaks, the ability to stand and stretch — tell the judge during jury selection. Courts can usually arrange these accommodations. If you need to eat at specific times because of diabetes or another condition, bring appropriate snacks and mention it to the judge.
What to do with valuables and personal items
Leave expensive jewelry, electronics, and large amounts of cash at home. Courthouses are generally secure, but you will be moving between rooms, and your belongings may not always be with you. If you must bring a wallet or keys, keep them on your person or in a secure bag.
If you bring a bag, expect it to be searched or screened at the courthouse entrance, similar to airport security. Some courthouses have lockers or secure storage for jurors' belongings during the trial. Ask the clerk when you arrive whether storage is available. Do not leave items unattended in the jury waiting area.
What happens if you bring something prohibited
If you arrive with a prohibited item, court security will ask you to leave it at the entrance, lock it in your car, or take it home. This can delay your entry and may make you late to jury selection. If you bring a phone and try to use it during the trial, the judge can hold you in contempt of court, which carries a fine or jail time. If you bring reference materials about the law or the case, the judge will confiscate them and may question whether you can be impartial.
The best approach is to call ahead. The courthouse phone number is on your summons. A clerk can tell you exactly what is allowed and what is not for your specific court and judge. Five minutes on the phone the day before saves time and confusion on the day itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my laptop or tablet to jury duty?
Most courts do not allow laptops or tablets in the courtroom or jury room because they can be used to research the case or communicate with people outside the court. Some courts allow them in the jury waiting area before selection begins. Call the courthouse to ask about the specific rule for your location.
What if I need to take notes during the trial?
You can bring a notebook and pen. Some judges allow jurors to take notes during testimony; others do not. The judge will tell you at the start of the trial whether note-taking is permitted. If it is, bring a small notebook and pen. Do not bring a laptop or digital device for this purpose.
Can I bring food and water to the courtroom?
You can bring a water bottle and snacks for breaks, though some courthouses provide water and snacks for jurors. You will not be allowed to eat or drink in the courtroom itself during the trial. The judge will announce breaks when you can eat and drink. Bring items that do not require refrigeration and are easy to eat quickly.
What if I have a disability and need special items?
Bring any items you need for your disability — mobility aids, cushions, hearing aids, or medications. Tell the judge during jury selection about your needs. Courts are required to provide reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The judge can arrange for you to sit in a specific location, take breaks, or have other support.
Do I need to bring my own lunch?
It depends on the length of the trial and the courthouse. Short trials may end by lunch; longer ones may require you to eat during a break. Some courthouses provide lunch for jurors; others do not. Bring a lunch or money to buy food nearby, just in case. Ask the clerk when you call the day before.