Bob Casey United States Courthouse (S.D. Tex.): Cell Phone Policy (2026)
Short answer: Cell phones, laptops and other wireless devices are allowed in the courthouse but may not be used in a courtroom without the judge's approval. No broadcasting, recording or photography anywhere in the courthouse without the presiding judge's authorization. Government photo ID is required. Checked
| Court | U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas |
|---|---|
| Address | 515 Rusk Avenue, Houston, TX 77002 |
| Public phones | Allowed for the public |
| Rule for visitors | Cell phones, laptops and other wireless devices are allowed in the courthouse but may not be used in a courtroom without the judge's approval. No broadcasting, recording or photography anywhere in the courthouse without the presiding judge's authorization. Government photo ID is required. |
| Jurors | Device rules vary by division; jurors should check with their reporting division and follow court security and staff instructions. |
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 Texas county courthouses.
Other Federal Courthouses in Texas
- William M. Steger Federal Building and United States Courthouse
- U.S. Courthouse, Dallas (headquarters)
- Reynaldo G. Garza-Filemon B. Vela United States Courthouse
- United States Courthouse, Corpus Christi
- San Antonio United States Courthouse
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my phone into the Bob Casey United States Courthouse?
Cell phones, laptops and other wireless devices are allowed in the courthouse but may not be used in a courtroom without the judge's approval. No broadcasting, recording or photography anywhere in the courthouse without the presiding judge's authorization. Government photo ID is required.
Can jurors bring phones to the Bob Casey United States Courthouse?
Device rules vary by division; jurors should check with their reporting division and follow court security and staff instructions.
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.