Charles Evans Whittaker U.S. Courthouse (W.D. Mo.): Cell Phone Policy (2026)
Short answer: Members of the general public may not bring phones or cameras into the courthouse; only listed categories (law enforcement, U.S. Attorney/FPD staff, panel trustees, tenants, attorneys, and others specifically permitted by a judge) may possess electronic communication devices. Checked
| Court | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri |
|---|---|
| Address | 400 E. 9th Street, Kansas City, MO 64106 |
| Public phones | Banned for the general public |
| Rule for visitors | Members of the general public may not bring phones or cameras into the courthouse; only listed categories (law enforcement, U.S. Attorney/FPD staff, panel trustees, tenants, attorneys, and others specifically permitted by a judge) may possess electronic communication devices. |
| Attorneys | Attorneys (including pro hac vice) and staff who present photo ID and a current bar registration card from any federal or state court may possess devices; no device use in the courtroom except laptops unless a judge grants permission. |
| Governing order | W.D. Mo. Local Rule 83.11 |
Federal and county courthouses set separate rules. If your case is in state or county court (traffic, family, most criminal cases, state jury duty), see Missouri county courthouses.
Other Federal Courthouses in Missouri
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my phone into the Charles Evans Whittaker U.S. Courthouse?
Members of the general public may not bring phones or cameras into the courthouse; only listed categories (law enforcement, U.S. Attorney/FPD staff, panel trustees, tenants, attorneys, and others specifically permitted by a judge) may possess electronic communication devices.
Can attorneys bring phones to the Charles Evans Whittaker U.S. Courthouse?
Attorneys (including pro hac vice) and staff who present photo ID and a current bar registration card from any federal or state court may possess devices; no device use in the courtroom except laptops unless a judge grants permission.
Can I bring a gun or knife into a federal courthouse?
No. Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 930) prohibits firearms and dangerous weapons in federal court facilities, with narrow exceptions such as on-duty law enforcement.