Users who bring Meta glasses into courts or tribunals will have them confiscated on entry: HMCTS

Taking images or videos in court buildings is prohibited in the UK without official permission and can be prosecuted as contempt of court.

While lawyers and members of the public are allowed to enter courts with smartphones, which can record both video and audio, the Court Service has clarified that no such exception will be made for smart glasses.

The devices, which can record video, photos and audio, have raised privacy concerns due to their ability to film without drawing attention.

A spokesperson for HMCTS said: “There are clear restrictions on taking images or videos within courts and tribunals which is why the use of Meta glasses is prohibited.

“Users who bring Meta glasses into courts or tribunals will have them confiscated on entry and they will be returned when the owner leaves the building.”

Lottie Winson