Stepping inside the San Diego Central Courthouse can feel daunting, especially for anyone unfamiliar with how the system operates.
From security to finding the right courtroom, knowing what to expect ahead of time can reduce stress and help the day run more smoothly.
This guide breaks down the courthouse layout, procedures, and key rules to keep in mind so that anyone appearing for a hearing, arraignment, or trial can walk in prepared rather than uncertain.
Layout and Key Locations
The San Diego Central Courthouse, located at 1100 Union Street, is the primary location for many criminal and civil proceedings in the downtown area.
The building spans 22 stories, making it one of the largest courthouses in California.
Main areas to know include:
- Main Entrance (Union Street)
- All visitors enter through security screening on the first floor
- Clerks’ Offices
- Found on lower floors for filing, records, and procedural questions
- Criminal Courtrooms
- Typically located between the 2nd and 9th floors. Signage and posted lists direct people to specific courtrooms
- Jury Assembly Room
- Located near the main security entrance
- Prospective jurors check in here before being sent to assigned rooms.
- Public Elevators and Stairwells
- Clearly marked but often busy in the mornings, especially before 9:00 a.m.
Knowing where these sections are ahead of time can help avoid rushing through unfamiliar hallways or waiting in long elevator lines at the last minute.
Security Procedures and What You Can Bring
Like other California courthouses, the San Diego Central Courthouse enforces strict security rules at the entrance. Everyone must pass through metal detectors, and bags are screened by X-ray.
Security points:
- Prohibited items
- Weapons
- Pepper spray
- Sharp objects
- Illegal substances
- Electronics
- Cell phones and laptops are permitted, but must be silenced
- Some courtrooms restrict photography or recording
- Bags and belongings
- Bring only what’s necessary
- Security lines move faster when personal items are limited
Arriving 30 to 45 minutes early is strongly recommended, especially for morning hearings when lines are longest.
Once inside, follow all posted signs and security instructions to avoid delays.
Check-In and Courtroom Etiquette
Court proceedings at the San Diego Central Courthouse follow structured procedures, and how someone conducts themselves inside matters.
Things to take note of:
- Check-in procedures
- Defendants typically check in with the courtroom clerk
- Some courtrooms use sign-in sheets posted outside
- Dress and demeanor
- Attire should be clean, conservative, and respectful
- Hats, sunglasses, and revealing clothing are not appropriate
- Attire should be clean, conservative, and respectful
- Courtroom conduct
- Phones must be turned off or silenced
- No eating, drinking, or chewing gum is allowed
- Speak only when addressed by the court or your attorney
- Seating and order
- Wait quietly for the judge to take the bench
- Stand when the judge enters or leaves
- Bailiffs enforce these rules strictly
A respectful, attentive presence in court communicates seriousness and avoids drawing unwanted attention from the judge or bailiff.
Timing and Scheduling Realities
While some hearings are set for a specific hour, many calendars involve dozens of cases.
A few scheduling realities to keep in mind:
- Morning calendars usually begin around 8:30 a.m. and often run through late morning.
- Afternoon calendars typically start at 1:30 p.m.
- Cases may be delayed if the judge is presiding over a trial or another matter.
- Defendants must remain present until their case is called unless excused by the court.
Patience is part of the process. Bringing water (in a clear, sealed container) and any necessary documents can make waiting more manageable.
Parking and Transportation Tips
Downtown San Diego parking is limited, and courthouse-adjacent spots fill quickly. Planning transportation in advance can prevent unnecessary stress.
Important considerations:
- Public parking lots
- There are several paid lots within a few blocks, but prices vary
- Arriving early increases the chances of finding affordable spaces
- Metered street parking
- Time limits apply, and enforcement is strict
- Extending time may require leaving the courthouse, which is not ideal once inside
- Public transportation
- The trolley and multiple bus lines stop nearby
- Using public transit can avoid parking issues altogether
No matter which option you choose, plan for extra time between arrival and your scheduled hearing to get through security and find the correct courtroom.
What to Expect During a Hearing
Inside the courtroom, hearings follow procedures outlined under California law. While the details vary depending on the type of case, the structure remains consistent.
Typical steps include:
- Calling the calendar
- The judge goes through the list of cases scheduled for the session.
- Appearance and announcements
- Attorneys and defendants identify themselves
- The judge may confirm whether both parties are ready to proceed
- Addressing procedural matters
- Continuances
- Plea discussions
- Setting future court dates
- Substantive hearing
- Arraignment
- Motions
- Setting trial dates
- Orders and next steps
- The judge issues instructions
- Bail
- Future appearances
- Release conditions
- The judge issues instructions
Some hearings are brief, while others can take longer depending on the court’s schedule and the complexity of the case.
Where to Get Information While There
The courthouse can feel confusing, but several resources are available inside to help people find their way or get case information.
Places to look for:
- Information desks
- Located on the ground floor near the main entrance
- Staff can provide directions to departments and courtrooms.
- Electronic directories
- Touchscreens display courtroom locations and case calendars by name or case number.
- Clerk’s office
- Handles questions about filing, records, and scheduling.
- Lines can be long, so it’s best to approach early in the day.
Preparing these details ahead of time can reduce unnecessary delays once inside the building.
Why Preparation Matters for Court Appearances
The impression someone makes in court, their punctuality, and how well they follow procedures can influence how smoothly their case moves forward.
A late arrival, misplaced paperwork, or improper behavior can complicate proceedings in ways that are entirely avoidable.
The court is a formal environment where rules are enforced strictly. Showing up prepared signals respect for the process and can prevent issues that might otherwise affect the outcome of a case.
Final Notes Before Your Court Date
Whether attending for an arraignment, hearing, or trial, understanding the environment and expectations in advance can make a meaningful difference.
David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys provides experienced representation in San Diego courts. Call today and be confident that you understand rights and responsibilities before walking through those doors.