How to Visit the Indiana Judicial Center

The Indiana Judicial Center is more than just a government building—it is the symbolic and operational heart of the state’s judiciary system. Located in downtown Indianapolis, it houses the Indiana Supreme Court, the Indiana Court of Appeals, and key administrative offices that support the state’s entire judicial framework. For citizens, legal professionals, students, and visitors interested in understanding how justice is administered in Indiana, a visit to the Indiana Judicial Center offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the rule of law in action.

Unlike many public buildings, the Indiana Judicial Center is not designed as a tourist attraction with guided exhibits or souvenir shops. Instead, it functions as a working courthouse and administrative hub, which means access is governed by specific protocols, security procedures, and operational hours. Knowing how to visit the Indiana Judicial Center properly ensures a respectful, seamless, and meaningful experience—whether you’re attending a court hearing, researching legal history, or simply seeking to observe democracy at work.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of everything you need to know to plan, prepare for, and successfully visit the Indiana Judicial Center. From entry requirements and parking options to courtroom etiquette and educational resources, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge to navigate the facility with confidence and compliance. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned legal observer, this resource ensures you make the most of your time within one of Indiana’s most important civic institutions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Your Purpose for Visiting

Before making any travel plans, clearly define why you are visiting the Indiana Judicial Center. Your purpose determines the level of access you will have and the procedures you must follow. Common reasons include:

• Attending a public court hearing or oral argument
• Researching legal documents or court records
• Participating in a legal education program or seminar
• Observing judicial proceedings as a student or member of the public
• Meeting with a court official or attorney by appointment

Each purpose may require different preparation. For example, attending a hearing requires knowing the case number and courtroom location, while accessing public records may require prior registration with the Clerk of the Supreme Court. If your visit is for educational or professional purposes, consider contacting the Center’s Public Information Office in advance to ensure appropriate accommodations.

Step 2: Verify Operating Hours and Schedule

The Indiana Judicial Center operates on a standard business schedule, but with important exceptions. The building is open to the public Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding state holidays. However, court sessions and administrative functions may occur outside these hours, particularly during trial periods or special proceedings.

Oral arguments before the Indiana Supreme Court are typically held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. These sessions are open to the public, but seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Court calendars are published online at the official Indiana Courts website. Always check the schedule for the week of your planned visit to confirm hearing times and any changes due to holidays or emergencies.

Administrative offices, such as the Clerk of the Supreme Court and the Office of Judicial Administration, may have slightly different hours for record requests or in-person inquiries. It is recommended to call ahead or consult the website for department-specific availability.

Step 3: Plan Your Transportation and Parking

The Indiana Judicial Center is centrally located at 315 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204, adjacent to the Indiana Statehouse and within walking distance of several downtown transit hubs. Public transportation is readily available via IndyGo bus routes, with stops located within two blocks of the building.

For those arriving by car, parking is available in the adjacent Indiana Government Center South Garage, located at 100 North Senate Avenue. This state-operated garage offers daily rates and is accessible via entrance ramps from Senate Avenue and Illinois Street. Visitors should note that parking is not free; rates vary depending on duration and time of day. Payment can be made via cash, credit card, or mobile app at the automated kiosks.

Alternative parking options include metered street parking along Washington Street and neighboring blocks, though availability is limited during business hours. For those with mobility needs, designated accessible parking spaces are available in the garage and near the main entrance. Always display a valid disability placard or license plate to avoid citations.

Step 4: Prepare for Security Screening

Like all state government buildings, the Indiana Judicial Center enforces strict security protocols. All visitors must pass through a metal detector and have their belongings screened by x-ray equipment before entering the building. The main entrance is located on the west side of the building, facing Washington Street.

Prohibited items include:

• Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives, pepper spray, and firearms)
• Large bags, backpacks, or luggage (small purses and briefcases are permitted)
• Cameras, recording devices, or cell phones in active use in courtrooms
• Food, beverages, and tobacco products

Visitors are encouraged to travel light. If you are carrying legal documents, legal pads, or laptops for research purposes, be prepared to explain their purpose to security personnel. Items that are confiscated or deemed a security risk may be stored temporarily in a locker provided at the entrance, but the Center does not assume liability for lost or damaged items.

Step 5: Navigate the Building Layout

Once through security, you will enter the main lobby, which features a large information desk staffed by court personnel. The lobby is open to the public and contains maps, brochures, and digital kiosks displaying current court calendars.

The Indiana Judicial Center spans seven floors, with distinct areas designated for different functions:

• First Floor: Main lobby, information desk, public restrooms, and the Clerk of the Supreme Court’s public window for record requests.
• Second Floor: Courtroom 1 and Courtroom 2, where most oral arguments are held. Also houses the Law Library, open to the public during business hours.
• Third Floor: Administrative offices for the Indiana Supreme Court Justices and staff.
• Fourth Floor: Indiana Court of Appeals courtrooms and chambers.
• Fifth through Seventh Floors: Additional administrative offices and meeting rooms.

Signage throughout the building is clear and consistent. Elevators and stairwells are labeled with floor numbers and department names. If you are unsure of your destination, ask any staff member wearing a badge—they are trained to assist visitors.

Step 6: Access Courtrooms and Hearings

Public access to courtrooms is a cornerstone of the American judicial system. All oral arguments before the Indiana Supreme Court and Court of Appeals are open to the public unless specifically closed by court order (a rare occurrence).

To enter a courtroom:

1. Arrive at least 20 minutes before the scheduled start time. Seating is limited and not guaranteed.
2. Proceed to the designated courtroom on the second floor. Courtroom 1 is typically used for Supreme Court sessions; Courtroom 2 is used for Court of Appeals.
3. Wait in the hallway outside the courtroom until court personnel open the doors.
4. Enter quietly and take any available seat. Do not speak, use mobile devices, or take photographs.
5. Remain seated until the judge enters or exits the room. When the judge enters, all persons must stand as a sign of respect.
6. Leave quietly after the proceeding concludes. Do not linger or approach judges or clerks unless you have a scheduled appointment.

Children under the age of 12 are permitted in courtrooms but must be supervised at all times. Parents are encouraged to consider the length and formality of proceedings before bringing young children.

Step 7: Request Public Records or Documents

The Clerk of the Supreme Court maintains all official records of cases heard by the Indiana Supreme Court. These include briefs, transcripts, orders, and opinions. Most records are available for public inspection and copying.

To request records in person:

1. Visit the Clerk’s Office on the first floor during business hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
2. Provide the case name, number, or date of filing. If you do not have this information, staff can assist with a search using available indexes.
3. Complete a simple request form. There is no fee for in-person inspection.
4. Copies are available for a nominal charge: $0.25 per page for standard copies, $1.00 per page for certified copies.
5. Records are typically available immediately. For older or archived cases, retrieval may take up to one business day.

Some records may be sealed or restricted due to privacy laws. In such cases, staff will explain the legal basis for the restriction and whether a court order is required for access.

Step 8: Engage with Educational and Public Programs

The Indiana Judicial Center regularly hosts educational events designed to promote civic understanding. These include:

• “Courtroom to Classroom” programs for middle and high school students
• Public lectures by judges and legal scholars
• Annual Open House events during Law Day (May)
• Mock trial competitions and student observation days

These programs are free and open to the public, but advance registration is often required. Check the Indiana Courts website’s “Public Education” section for upcoming events. Schools and community groups can request tailored presentations by contacting the Office of Judicial Administration.

Step 9: Departure and Feedback

When leaving the building, exit through the same entrance used for entry. If you have any feedback about your visit—positive or constructive—you may submit it via the online form on the Indiana Courts website or leave a written comment at the information desk. Your input helps improve public access and services.

Do not attempt to leave through restricted areas or emergency exits. Violations of building protocols may result in being asked to leave or being reported to security authorities.

Best Practices

Visiting the Indiana Judicial Center is a privilege grounded in civic responsibility. To ensure your experience is respectful, productive, and compliant with legal norms, follow these best practices:

Dress Appropriately

While there is no formal dress code, visitors are expected to dress in a manner that reflects the solemnity of the judicial environment. Avoid casual attire such as tank tops, shorts, flip-flops, or clothing with offensive slogans. Business casual—slacks, button-down shirts, dresses, or blazers—is recommended. This shows respect for the institution and helps maintain a professional atmosphere.

Practice Silence and Discretion

Courthouses are places of serious legal proceedings. Conversations should be kept to a whisper, and mobile phones must be silenced and stored away in courtrooms. Avoid discussing ongoing cases, especially those involving parties you know. Even casual remarks can be misinterpreted or violate ethical boundaries.

Respect Judicial Authority

Judges, clerks, bailiffs, and court staff are public servants who uphold the law. Address them as “Your Honor,” “Mr. Clerk,” or “Madam Clerk.” Never interrupt proceedings, argue with staff, or attempt to influence outcomes. If you have a question, wait until after the hearing or schedule a formal inquiry.

Do Not Record or Photograph

Under Indiana law, recording devices—including smartphones—are prohibited in courtrooms unless explicitly authorized by the court. This includes taking photos, audio recordings, or video. Violations may result in confiscation of equipment and removal from the premises. If you wish to document your visit, consider taking notes or using the official court transcripts available after proceedings.

Be Patient and Flexible

Court schedules are subject to change due to delays, settlements, or procedural motions. A hearing scheduled for 9:30 a.m. may begin later or be postponed entirely. Always allow extra time and check digital kiosks or call ahead if you are unsure. Flexibility ensures you do not become frustrated or disruptive.

Know Your Rights and Limits

As a visitor, you have the right to observe open court proceedings and access public records. However, you do not have the right to speak in court, interfere with proceedings, or request private information about litigants. Understanding these boundaries protects both you and the integrity of the judicial process.

Prepare Questions in Advance

If you are visiting for educational purposes, prepare thoughtful questions about court procedures, judicial selection, or case outcomes. This enhances your experience and may lead to meaningful conversations with court staff or volunteers.

Follow All Posted Signs and Instructions

Signage throughout the building is not decorative—it is legally binding. If a sign says “Authorized Personnel Only,” “No Entry,” or “Quiet Zone,” comply immediately. These rules exist to protect the safety and privacy of all individuals within the building.

Report Issues Immediately

If you notice a security concern, malfunctioning equipment, or unprofessional behavior by staff, report it to the information desk or file a written complaint through the official website. The Indiana Judicial Center is committed to maintaining a safe and professional environment for all visitors.

Tools and Resources

Planning a visit to the Indiana Judicial Center is made easier with the right tools and resources. Below is a curated list of official and trusted sources that provide accurate, up-to-date information.

Official Indiana Courts Website

The primary resource for all visitors is www.in.gov/courts. This site offers:

• Live and archived court calendars
• Opinions and orders from the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals
• Directions, parking maps, and building floor plans
• Links to online record requests and e-filing systems
• Information about public education programs and upcoming events

Bookmark this site and check it regularly, as updates are posted in real time.

Indiana Supreme Court Clerk’s Office Contact

For questions about records, hearing schedules, or accessibility accommodations, contact the Clerk’s Office directly:

Phone: (317) 232-1937

Email: clerk@courts.in.gov

Responses are typically provided within one business day. Avoid sending sensitive personal information via email unless encrypted.

Indiana Law Library

Located on the second floor, the Indiana Law Library is open to the public and contains over 100,000 volumes of legal texts, including federal and state statutes, case reporters, legal encyclopedias, and historical archives. The library offers:

• Free public access to Westlaw and LexisNexis terminals
• Research assistance from certified law librarians
• Print and digital copy services
• Quiet study areas and Wi-Fi

Library hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. No appointment is necessary.

Mobile Applications

The Indiana Courts mobile app (available on iOS and Android) allows users to:

• Search for upcoming court dates by case name or number
• Receive push notifications for calendar changes
• Access digital copies of court opinions
• View real-time parking availability at the Government Center Garage

Download the app through your device’s official app store by searching “Indiana Courts.”

Accessibility Resources

The Indiana Judicial Center is fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Services include:

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and elevators
• Assistive listening devices for courtrooms
• Large-print and Braille versions of court calendars and forms
• Sign language interpreters upon 48-hour notice

To request accommodations, contact the ADA Coordinator at (317) 232-1937 or ada@courts.in.gov.

Historical and Educational Materials

For those interested in the history of Indiana’s judiciary, the Center maintains a small exhibit on the first floor showcasing historical court artifacts, portraits of former justices, and timelines of landmark rulings. Educational packets for teachers and students are available for download on the Indiana Courts website under “Resources for Educators.”

Third-Party Legal Research Tools

While not affiliated with the state, platforms like Google Scholar, Justia, and Oyez provide free access to Indiana court opinions and audio recordings of oral arguments (when available). These tools are excellent for pre-visit research and contextual understanding.

Real Examples

Understanding how to visit the Indiana Judicial Center becomes clearer through real-life scenarios. Below are three detailed examples of individuals who successfully navigated their visits, along with lessons learned.

Example 1: High School Student Observing a Landmark Case

Maya, a 16-year-old student from Bloomington, participated in her school’s civics program and chose to observe a Supreme Court case on student privacy rights. She and her teacher arrived at 8:00 a.m. on a Tuesday, 90 minutes before the scheduled hearing. After passing through security with their backpacks (which contained notebooks and laptops), they were directed to Courtroom 1 by a volunteer usher.

Maya took handwritten notes and later wrote a reflective essay for her class. She noted that the most impactful moment was when the Chief Justice asked a question that revealed the complexity of balancing school authority with constitutional rights. “It wasn’t just about the law,” she wrote. “It was about how the law protects real people.”

Lesson: Arriving early ensures seating and allows time to absorb the atmosphere. Taking notes by hand enhances retention and respects courtroom rules.

Example 2: Attorney Accessing Archived Case Files

David, a family law attorney from Fort Wayne, needed to review a 2015 custody decision from the Indiana Court of Appeals to support a similar motion he was preparing. He visited the Clerk’s Office on the first floor and provided the case number. Staff retrieved the file from archives within 20 minutes. He copied 17 pages of the transcript at $0.25 per page and received a receipt for his records.

David also used the Law Library’s Westlaw terminal to cross-reference recent appellate rulings on the same legal standard. He completed his research in under two hours and left with all necessary materials.

Lesson: Having precise case information saves time. Combining in-person record access with digital research tools maximizes efficiency.

Example 3: Retired Teacher Attending an Open House Event

Robert, a 72-year-old retired social studies teacher, attended the annual Law Day Open House at the Indiana Judicial Center. He arrived at 10:00 a.m. and participated in a guided tour led by a retired judge. He watched a mock trial performed by law students, asked questions about judicial elections, and received a free copy of “Understanding the Indiana Courts.”

Robert was especially moved by the interactive exhibit on the history of jury service in Indiana. He later donated the booklet to his local library and encouraged other seniors to attend future events.

Lesson: Public events are designed for lifelong learning. Even those without legal training can gain deep insights through accessible programming.

FAQs

Can I walk into the Indiana Judicial Center without an appointment?

Yes. The Indiana Judicial Center is open to the public for court observations, record access, and educational events without requiring an appointment. However, appointments are necessary if you are meeting with a judge, clerk, or attorney for a private consultation.

Are children allowed in courtrooms?

Yes, children are permitted in courtrooms as long as they are supervised and remain quiet. However, due to the formal and sometimes emotionally intense nature of proceedings, parents are advised to consider the maturity level of the child and the length of the hearing.

Can I bring my laptop or tablet into the building?

Yes. Laptops and tablets are allowed throughout the building, including in the public areas and law library. However, they must be silenced and not used for recording during court proceedings. Wi-Fi is available for public use.

Is there free parking at the Indiana Judicial Center?

No. Parking is available in the adjacent Indiana Government Center South Garage, but it is not free. Daily rates apply. Metered street parking is limited and also requires payment.

How do I find out what cases are being heard on a given day?

Visit the Indiana Courts website and navigate to the “Oral Arguments” section. Calendars are updated weekly and include case names, docket numbers, and scheduled times. You may also call the Clerk’s Office at (317) 232-1937.

Can I get a copy of a court transcript?

Yes. Transcripts of court proceedings are available through the Court Reporter’s Office. Requests must be made in writing and may take several weeks to process, depending on the length and age of the proceeding. Fees apply.

Is the Indiana Judicial Center open on weekends?

No. The building is closed on weekends and state holidays. Court hearings are not held on Saturdays or Sundays.

Can I bring a water bottle or snack into the building?

No. Food and beverages are not permitted in courtrooms or administrative areas. Water fountains are available on each floor. You may consume food in designated areas outside the building.

What should I do if I’m late for a hearing?

If you are late, proceed to the courtroom immediately. Do not attempt to enter once the judge has taken the bench. Wait in the hallway and signal to a bailiff. They may allow you to enter if the proceeding is in a recess or if there is space. However, you may miss part of the argument.

Are interpreters available for non-English speakers?

Yes. The Indiana Judicial Center provides interpreters for major languages upon request with at least 48 hours’ notice. Contact the ADA Coordinator at ada@courts.in.gov to arrange this service.

Conclusion

Visiting the Indiana Judicial Center is more than a logistical task—it is an act of civic engagement. In a time when trust in institutions is often questioned, stepping into a courthouse and witnessing the machinery of justice firsthand reinforces the foundational principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability. Whether you are attending a hearing, researching legal history, or simply seeking to understand how laws are interpreted and applied, your presence matters.

This guide has provided you with a detailed, practical roadmap for navigating the Indiana Judicial Center—from planning your transportation and preparing for security screening to respecting courtroom decorum and accessing public records. By following these steps and best practices, you not only ensure a smooth visit but also contribute to the dignity and integrity of the judicial process.

The Indiana Judicial Center does not exist in isolation. It is a living institution shaped by the people who enter its doors—judges, attorneys, litigants, students, and citizens like you. Your visit is a reminder that justice is not abstract; it is practiced, observed, and upheld every day in the quiet halls of this building.

So plan your visit with care. Respect the rules. Ask thoughtful questions. And when you leave, carry with you not just information, but a deeper appreciation for the rule of law in Indiana.