NCJ Number
178541
Date Published
1998
Length
220 pages
Annotation
This publication is to be used as a guide for practitioners in the fields of criminal justice and public safety when dealing with the Unified Judicial System and the provision of security in courthouse and courtroom settings.
Abstract
The sharp rise in acts of violence in courts has resulted in the need to address legal issues and case law in order to safeguard the judicial process. Moreover, providing courthouse and courtroom security and the transportation of prisoners are responsibilities most often shared by the judiciary, law enforcement, the U.S. Marshals Service, other criminal justice components, and in some cases private security agencies. Beginning sections of the publication consider court structures and powers, the handling of unruly defendants, searches of persons and property, the use of armed force, metal detectors, civil liability in prisoner transportation, and constitutional rights. Subsequent sections deal with security plan development, measures to make court facilities more secure, the federal court system, state courts, county and municipal courts, and law enforcement's role in providing courthouse and courtroom security. Appendixes contain extensive additional information on the Unified Judicial System and its authority and duties in courthouse and courtroom settings. References, tables, figures, and photographs