HMCTS introduces ban on smart glasses in courts

Tom Taylor, Solicitor

Earlier this year, Kuits published an article which covered a High Court case in which a witness was accused of receiving coaching through smart glasses while giving evidence. Whilst these allegations were denied by the witness, the article highlighted the risks posed by wearable technology in court.

In a recent development and perhaps as a lesson from this case, His Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (“HMCTS”) has announced a ban on smart glasses in courts and tribunals across England and Wales, marking a significant development in the ongoing tension between emerging technology and the administration of justice.

The decision means that anyone entering a court building with smart glasses will be required to surrender the device upon entry, with the glasses returned when they leave. HMCTS has emphasised that the prohibition reflects the long-standing restriction on taking photographs, videos or audio recordings within courts and tribunals. While smartphones remain permitted in court buildings, the distinction lies in visibility. A person using a phone to record is generally obvious. Smart glasses, however, can record discreetly while being worn. This raises concerns about covert filming, witness intimidation, privacy breaches and the integrity of proceedings as reported in the High Court case.

For legal professionals, the ban is a reminder that technological innovation frequently outpaces regulation. Courts must balance the benefits of new technologies with fundamental principles of open justice. As AI-enabled and wearable devices become more common, the clear message from HMCTS is that courtroom integrity remains paramount.