Dorchester Crown Court
The court has one courtroom; the court offices are in Weymouth
General Info
- NameDorchester
- TypeCrown
- TierSecond
- RegionWestern
- Opening Times8.30am to 5pm
Contact Info
- AddressCounty Hall, Colliston Park. Dorchester, Dorset. Dorset. DT1 1XJ
- Telephone Open Times9am to 5pm
- Phone01305 265867
- Fax01305 251867
- Enquiries Email[email protected]
Going to Dorchester Crown Court
When to arrive
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your hearing time to clear security and find your courtroom. The building is open 8.30am to 5pm. Check the daily court lists on arrival to confirm your courtroom number.
What to bring
Bring photo ID, any paperwork or letters about your case, and the name of your solicitor or barrister if you have one. Dress smartly. Phones must usually be switched off in the courtroom.
Do you need a lawyer?
For Crown Court matters most people are represented by a solicitor or barrister. You may be eligible for legal aid. See the legal help below or speak to a solicitor as early as possible.
Getting there
County Hall, Colliston Park. Dorchester, Dorset. Dorset. DT1 1XJ. Use the directions link above for travel and parking.
General guidance only — not legal advice. Always check official instructions on your court letter and at GOV.UK.
Dorchester Crown Court listings today & tomorrow
Daily hearing lists for Dorchester Crown Court by courtroom, time and case reference, updated from official HM Courts & Tribunals Service sources through the sitting day.
Lists change at short notice. Always confirm your courtroom and time from the daily list on arrival. Free email alerts are available on the listings page. How busy is this court?
Dorchester Crown Court: common questions
What time does Dorchester Crown Court open?
Dorchester Crown Court is open 8.30am to 5pm. The telephone enquiry line is open 9am to 5pm. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your hearing time to get through security and find your courtroom.
How do I find out which courtroom my case is in at Dorchester Crown Court?
Check the daily court list. It is published by HM Courts & Tribunals Service the working day before and shows each case by courtroom, time and case reference. On the day, the same list is displayed on screens inside the building and ushers can direct you. Cases are sometimes moved between courtrooms at short notice, so check again when you arrive.
See today's listings for Dorchester Crown CourtWhat is the phone number for Dorchester Crown Court?
The enquiries number for Dorchester Crown Court is 01305 265867. You can also email [email protected]. For anything about your own case, contact your solicitor first.
Where is Dorchester Crown Court?
Dorchester Crown Court is at County Hall, Colliston Park. Dorchester, Dorset. Dorset. DT1 1XJ.
Get directionsCan I take my phone into Dorchester Crown Court?
Yes. Phones go through the security scanner on the way in and must be switched off or silent inside the courtroom. Recording, photographing or filming anything inside a court building is a criminal offence. Some courts ask you to hand phones in at the public gallery door for certain trials.
What should I bring to a hearing at Dorchester Crown Court?
Photo ID, any letter or paperwork about your case, and the name of your solicitor or barrister if you have one. Dress smartly. Allow time for security: bags are searched and sharp objects, glass and aerosols are not allowed in.
Do I need a solicitor for a Crown Court hearing?
Almost everyone appearing in the Crown Court is represented. Legal aid is usually available for Crown Court cases, although you may be asked to contribute. If you have a hearing listed and no representation, contact a criminal defence firm as early as possible.
Criminal defence solicitors near DorchesterCan members of the public watch a hearing at Dorchester Crown Court?
Yes. Almost all Crown Court hearings are open to the public and there is a public gallery in each courtroom. You do not need to book. Some hearings are closed or have reporting restrictions, and the usher will tell you if you cannot enter.