Observations from the New York City Criminal Court: A London Defence Perspective

In the final week of November, I had the opportunity to visit the New York City Criminal Court in Manhattan, hosted by the New York County Defender Services (NYCDS). As a London defence lawyer, observing another major criminal justice system in operation offered valuable insight into how courts function under pressure, how security is managed, and how defendants are represented in a busy urban environment.

During my visit, I observed a full and demanding court session and met with experienced defence lawyers, including Chris Boyle of NYCDS. The exchange of perspectives was both constructive and eye-opening, particularly given the shared challenges faced by criminal justice systems in large cities.

The Standard of Legal Representation in New York

Far from the Hollywood portrayal of American criminal courts, I found the standard of legal representation at NYCDS to be highly impressive. Their reputation among US defence lawyers for commitment, preparation, and courtroom advocacy was evident throughout the day.

I observed how NYCDS lawyers consistently matched the well-resourced District Attorney’s Office with organisation, passion, and skill. They demonstrated the same level of dedication and professionalism one would expect from private paid defence lawyers, despite operating within a public defence framework.

Court Security: A Stark Contrast with London

One of the most striking differences I observed was the level of security in and around the Manhattan courthouse. There were dozens of police officers and security staff present, creating a strong sense of safety without causing delays or disruption. Court staff were welcoming, efficient, and clearly supported by visible security.

This observation felt particularly poignant given recent events at my home court, Willesden Magistrates’ Court in North West London, where a man was murdered immediately outside the building after attending court to support a relative. Lawyers were almost caught in the incident, leaving many shocked and distressed.

Attacks in and around London courts are not rare occurrences. The relative lack of security, especially compared to what I witnessed in New York, means that court staff and lawyers are regularly subjected to harassment, abuse, and assault. Alarmingly, weapons can and do enter court buildings. I have personally found a knife in a cell I had previously seen a prisoner occupy, an unprecedented and deeply concerning experience.

I have witnessed police officers being violently assaulted inside court buildings. Most recently, a lone police liaison officer was attacked by a man who had a large knife taken from him. The backup arrived many minutes after the 999 call was made. Nearby, the probation office has previously been the site of a serious knife attack involving multiple assailants.

The Role and Loss of Police Liaison Officers in London Courts

In London, most courts are staffed by only one or two full time police liaison officers. These officers play a vital role, assisting with serious incidents and supporting daily administrative coordination between police investigations and court proceedings. This benefits both defence and prosecution.

Despite this, the Metropolitan Police is cutting police liaison roles due to budget reductions. These officers have been present in courts for almost 50 years, and their removal has caused significant concern amongst lawyers, prosecutors, judges, magistrates, and court staff. In the recent fatal incident outside Willesden Magistrates’ Court, it appears that the first officers on scene were the police liaison officers based in the building.

A recent survey by the Magistrates’ Association highlights the seriousness of the issue. Strikingly, one in four magistrates reported feeling unsafe while carrying out their duties. Furthermore, responses from over 1,200 magistrates across England and Wales revealed physical attacks in courtrooms, threats from public galleries, broken panic alarms, unsafe buildings, and unsecured car parks.

Order, Efficiency, and Respect in the NYC Criminal Process

Another notable observation was the overall orderliness of the US criminal process. Prisoners were processed swiftly and brought before the court within 24 hours. Individuals granted bail were released immediately from the courtroom.

I also observed how, through the work of NYCDS lawyers, defendants with mental health concerns were compensated by judges if they had been kept in custody when they should have been transferred to hospital. These practices contributed to a sense of decorum and respect that is now too often absent in UK criminal courts.

Court users in New York did not enter intoxicated, play loud videos, or record themselves for social media. Clear and prominent warnings were displayed throughout the building. In London, despite a longstanding ban on recording, filming has become increasingly common and can be used to intimidate lawyers, witnesses, victims, security staff, and members of the public.

Supporting Court Security and the Need for Reform

Security staff in New York appeared well-trained, confident, attentive, and well-resourced. English was their first language, and court users behaved patiently and respectfully. While many security staff in London courts are knowledgeable and committed, others lack sufficient training in their legal powers, including civilian arrest, breach of the peace, and removal powers under court security legislation.

Many London security guards report feeling unsupported, underpaid, and fearful of losing their jobs if complaints are made after incidents. This lack of confidence undermines effective security.

I have also witnessed unfair accusations made against court security, including allegations of targeting lawyers. I am clear that all court users, including legal professionals, must cooperate with security staff to ensure safety in and around court buildings.

What is needed is ongoing training, professional support, clearer legal protections, and improved security measures both inside and outside court buildings, particularly during times of heightened risk. A single, clear Act of Parliament protecting all court users would be a welcome step forward.

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Acknowledgement

I am grateful to the staff of the New York County Defender Services for their invitation and for the valuable professional exchange that took place. Experiences such as this are essential in improving understanding of the challenges faced by clients, particularly US nationals accused of crimes in the UK.