Furious lawyers say they are forced to endure humiliating security searches at courts.
Guards have been confiscating items such as pens and children’s toys – claiming they might be used as weapons.
Some have seized the special boxes barristers use to store their wigs in case they could be used to carry a bomb.
Female barristers say they have even had spare undies laid out in front of other visitors.
One was asked by a security guard at Bromley Magistrates Court to “spread her legs” – leading to the man being suspended from his job.
Lawyers are now calling for ID cards so they can avoid the checks.
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Chris Henley QC, chair of the Criminal Bar Association, said: “There have been too many complaints that searches have become intrusive, even embarrassing.
“None of this keeps the public safe. We have enough to deal without having to put up with demeaning behaviour.”
HM Courts & Tribunals Service said it was working on an ID system with lawyers.
“Our priority is to keep people who use our courts safe so any items which could get into the wrong hands are not permitted,” it said.
