Thomas S. Foley United States Courthouse (E.D. Wash.): Cell Phone Policy (2026)
Short answer: Phones may be used in hallways, lobbies and other areas of the courthouse unless the court orders otherwise. In courtrooms, any device that can make sound must be off or silent; no voice calls, transcription or recording. Unless the court orders otherwise, members of the public may not use laptops, tablets or smartphones in the courtroom. Capturing, recording or broadcasting by any electronic or photographic means is prohibited in courtrooms and their surroundings. All items are inspected at entry. Checked
| Court | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington |
|---|---|
| Address | 920 West Riverside Avenue, Spokane, WA 99201 |
| Public phones | Allowed for the public |
| Rule for visitors | Phones may be used in hallways, lobbies and other areas of the courthouse unless the court orders otherwise. In courtrooms, any device that can make sound must be off or silent; no voice calls, transcription or recording. Unless the court orders otherwise, members of the public may not use laptops, tablets or smartphones in the courtroom. Capturing, recording or broadcasting by any electronic or photographic means is prohibited in courtrooms and their surroundings. All items are inspected at entry. |
| Jurors | Juror information says jurors may not use laptops, smartphones or tablets in the courtroom unless the judge allows it. Photos, video or audio anywhere in the courthouse are prohibited without court approval. |
| Attorneys | Members of the Bar of the Court and their staff may use laptops, tablets and smartphones in the courtroom, but not for photography, audio recording or broadcasting. |
| Governing order | General Order No. 18-54-01 (filed Jan. 5, 2018) |
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 Washington county courthouses.
Other Federal Courthouses in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my phone into the Thomas S. Foley United States Courthouse?
Phones may be used in hallways, lobbies and other areas of the courthouse unless the court orders otherwise. In courtrooms, any device that can make sound must be off or silent; no voice calls, transcription or recording. Unless the court orders otherwise, members of the public may not use laptops, tablets or smartphones in the courtroom. Capturing, recording or broadcasting by any electronic or photographic means is prohibited in courtrooms and their surroundings. All items are inspected at entry.
Can jurors bring phones to the Thomas S. Foley United States Courthouse?
Juror information says jurors may not use laptops, smartphones or tablets in the courtroom unless the judge allows it. Photos, video or audio anywhere in the courthouse are prohibited without court approval.
Can attorneys bring phones to the Thomas S. Foley United States Courthouse?
Members of the Bar of the Court and their staff may use laptops, tablets and smartphones in the courtroom, but not for photography, audio recording or broadcasting.
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.