Courthouse Security
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office oversees the general security of the courthouse complex to ensure the orderly, peaceful and safe conduct of court business.
Duties include manning metal detector and x-ray posts at each entrance, responding to alarms, perimeter patrols, courtroom security, movement of prisoners between central holding and courtrooms and performing emergency medical services when called upon.
Attorney ID Cards
This card expedites attorney access into the Morris County Courthouse. Learn more and apply for an ID card.
Courthouse Security Screening Process
Security in public buildings has become an unfortunate necessity and all people entering the courthouse—including litigants, attorneys, law enforcement, and employees—will be screened for weapons prior to gaining admittance. Additionally, all items brought in, such as purses, briefcases, packages, etc., will be scanned.
Prohibited items
Prohibited items include but are not limited to the following:
- guns
- ammunition
- knives
- switchblades
- box cutters
- scissors
- razors
- chemical mace
- pepper spray
- explosive devices or material
- brass knuckles
- caustic chemicals
- flammable materials
- tools (hammers, nails, etc.)
- glass bottles
- fingernail files
- knitting needles
- handcuffs/handcuff keys
- toy guns/knives
- stun guns
Prohibited items that are not illegal to posses will be retained by sheriff’s officers at the screening area. A receipt for same will be issued and the item will be returned to you when you leave the building. Items not claimed within thirty days will be destroyed.
Items that are safe in X-Ray Machines/Metal Detectors
The following items are safe to be placed in the x-ray machine or pass through the metal detectors:
- food
- cell phones
- computers
- computer disks
- film (up to 1600 speed)
- video/audio tape
- credit cards
- access badges
If you are unsure about an item, a sheriff’s officer will assist you.
The procedures outlined above can cause a short delay on busy mornings, especially between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Visitors are advised to plan to arrive a few minutes in advance to avoid being late for scheduled proceedings.
All courthouse visitors are asked to cooperate with sheriff’s officers. They are under specific instructions for the purpose of providing a safe environment for members of the public who have business with the county.
Directions and Parking
The Morris County Courthouse is at 56 Washington Street, Morristown, NJ, at the corner of Washington and Court Streets.
Street parking (metered) is scarce in the area because of the large number of stores nearby. The Town of Morristown maintains several parking lots in the area. The nearest is adjacent to 30 Schuyler Place, bordering Ann Street (enter via Schuyler Place or Bank Street). There are also lots on both sides of Cattano Avenue, a block from the courthouse.