Court Security Policy

Court Security Notice:

No firearms, knives, or other weapons are permitted in this building by joint order of the Chief Judges of St. Joseph County. All persons, belongings and parcels are subject to search as a condition of entry. Violators may be detained and may face penalties for contempt of court.

This administrative order is issued in accordance with Michigan Supreme Court Administrative Order 2000-1 to address the presence of weapons in court facilities.

Rules of Entry & Conduct

Prohibited Locations

No weapons are allowed in any buildings used for official court business or by judicial employees, including the Courts Building, the Historic Courthouse, Annex I, and the Jail.

Security Screening

All persons, their belongings, and all parcels are subject to screening by building security personnel for weapons. This is a mandatory condition of entry.

Penalties for Violation

Persons in violation of these rules may be detained and may be subject to penalties for contempt of court.

What defines a “Weapon”? Under this order, the term refers to firearms, knives, or any other items that could be used to incapacitate or injure persons, or reasonably cause fear of the same.

Policy Exceptions

This prohibition does not apply to certified law enforcement officers or on-duty building security personnel. However, such persons shall not possess weapons while in these buildings if they are participating as a party plaintiff or party defendant in litigation.

Judicial Exceptions: The Chief Judge of a court may grant a specific written exception at their discretion. These exceptions expire when the issuing judge is no longer Chief Judge. Copies of all exceptions are maintained by security staff for verification.

Administrative Order issued pursuant to Michigan Supreme Court Administrative Order 2000-1.