What to Take to Court for Sentencing in the UK
Last reviewed: July 2026
In short: take photo ID and your court paperwork, any character references and evidence of rehabilitation (work, study, treatment) for your solicitor, and any medication in its original packaging. Dress smartly, arrive early, and — if there is any chance of immediate custody — bring a small bag of essentials and someone you trust to take your belongings home. You cannot take your phone into the courtroom, and you should never bring anything prohibited. This guide is general information, not legal advice; follow your solicitor’s instructions.
What to bring
| Take with you | Why |
|---|---|
| Photo ID and your court paperwork | To get through security and confirm your hearing. |
| Character references & mitigation letters | Give them to your solicitor in advance; they support a lower sentence. |
| Proof of work, study, treatment or volunteering | Evidence of rehabilitation and stability counts as mitigation. |
| Any medication (in its original packaging) | In case you are taken into custody the same day. |
| A small bag of essentials (if custody is possible) | Glasses, essential medication, a list of key phone numbers. |
| A trusted adult to support you | To take your belongings home and arrange things if you are remanded. |
If there is a chance you could be sent to prison
If immediate custody is possible, prepare for it even while hoping to avoid it. Keep valuables, your phone and your wallet with the person supporting you, because personal items are taken from you if you are taken into custody. Bring essential medication in its original, labelled packaging, and a written list of important phone numbers (you will not have your phone in prison). Sort out childcare, pets, work and rent in advance so nothing is left unmanaged.
What to wear
Dress smartly and conservatively — as you would for a job interview. It shows respect for the court and helps make a good impression. Avoid slogans, hats and very casual clothing.
What not to bring
- Anything sharp or any prohibited item — you pass through airport-style security.
- Large amounts of cash or valuables.
- Children, unless unavoidable — sentencing hearings can be distressing.
Mobile phones must be switched off and cannot be used in the courtroom.
Common mistakes people make
- Handing in character references on the day — give them to your solicitor well beforehand so they can be used properly.
- Coming alone when custody is possible — you may have no one to take your phone, keys and wallet home.
- Forgetting medication — if remanded, you may wait before prison healthcare can prescribe it.
- Arriving late or dressed too casually — both create a poor impression.
- Assuming you will definitely go home — prepare for either outcome.
What happens at the hearing
- Arrive early, clear security and find your courtroom; meet your solicitor or barrister.
- The prosecution outlines the facts; your representative presents mitigation.
- The judge or magistrates decide the sentence following the sentencing guidelines.
- If the sentence is custodial and immediate, you are taken from the dock into custody; if it is a community order, fine or suspended sentence, you usually go home.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take my phone into court?
You can take it into the building but it must be off in the courtroom; if you are taken into custody it will be confiscated, so leave it with someone if possible.
Should I bring a bag in case I am sent to prison?
A small bag of essentials (medication, glasses, key phone numbers) is sensible if custody is a realistic possibility.
Can I bring my children?
It is best not to. Sentencing can be upsetting and you may be taken into custody.
Related guides and official sources
See will I go to prison, sentencing guidelines, going to prison and preparing for prison. Official: GOV.UK on going to court. This is general information, not legal advice.
What happens to my belongings if I am sent to prison?
Anything you have with you goes into your prison property or is handed to the person who came with you – which is exactly why bringing a trusted friend or relative to a sentencing hearing matters. Phones and valuables are far better handed over at court than sitting in a property box for months.
Can I take a bag into the courtroom?
You can bring a small bag through court security, which operates airport-style searches. Leave anything sharp or prohibited at home; if there is a real prospect of custody, keep the bag minimal – a list of key phone numbers on paper, medication in original packaging, glasses, and nothing of value.
Should I bring cash?
A small amount is sensible for travel and refreshments. Do not bring large sums or jewellery; if you are remanded or sentenced, valuables complicate the property process. Money for your prison account is best sent afterwards by family through the official GOV.UK service.
