Rule 1.03 Firearms Prohibited on the Witness Stand and in Courtroom

Weapons are not allowed in the courtroom. The only exception is for law enforcement officers who are doing their job.

Even police officers have to follow a special step if they are testifying. If an officer is called to the witness stand as a witness or as a party in the case, they must take off their firearm before testifying. They hand the weapon to the bailiff, who holds onto it until the officer is done testifying and leaves the stand. Once they step down, they can get their firearm back.

This rule is meant to keep the courtroom safe for everyone there, including the judge, jury, lawyers, and members of the public. It makes sure no one on the witness stand has a weapon while they are testifying, even if that person is normally armed as part of their job.