What is court support?
Court support is organized, respectful community presence before, during, and after a court appearance.
No one should face court alone
Court Support Center
Prepare to show up with purpose, respect, and care—without disrupting court proceedings or exposing private case information.
How Participatory Defense court support works
Hubs coordinate with participants, families, and counsel, clarify expectations, and help supporters show up appropriately.
Preparing to attend
Confirm the date, time, courtroom, courthouse, meeting point, and any directions from counsel or the Hub.
Courtroom etiquette
Dress respectfully, silence devices, follow staff instructions, avoid recording, and never interrupt proceedings.
Courthouse security
Expect screening and lines. Do not bring weapons, prohibited items, or unnecessary confidential material.
Arrival guidance
Allow extra travel and security time, locate the courtroom, and check in with the designated family or Hub contact.
Accessibility
Ask the courthouse and Hub about entrances, seating, language access, hearing access, mobility needs, and other accommodations.
Transportation
Check current SEPTA service, parking restrictions, paratransit arrangements, and return-trip plans before leaving.
Supporting families
Offer calm presence, practical help, respectful listening, and follow-up without pressing anyone to share private case details.
Privacy first
Participant names, case numbers, charges, and court dates are not posted publicly by default.
Community support request
Would you like support with a case?
Use the streamlined request form. The full Participant Intake and professional referral forms remain available.
What to bring
- Photo identification if required
- Your attorney’s contact information
- Paper and a quiet pen
- Only documents counsel says are appropriate
What not to bring
- Weapons or prohibited items
- Recording equipment
- Confidential materials you do not need
- Anything that may delay security screening
Other ways to connect
The full Participant Intake and professional referral forms remain available.