When you have to appear in court, it is important to follow a number of courtroom etiquette rules. You should always speak politely to everyone and stay calm and in control. The judge hearing your case is in control of the courtroom and can make all decisions regarding the case. You need to appear polite, respectful, and honest to the jury. Body language and how you carry yourself is just as important as what is said in court. Remember that judges and bailiffs represent the law and you must behave appropriately.
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Part 1 of 3: Preparing to Attend Court
Step 1. Dress modestly in court
You need to dress conservatively.
- Dressing professionally and conservatively is an attitude of respect for judges and courts.
- Behaving respectfully is very important for the conduct of the trial.
- Men should wear a suit or trousers and a shirt.
- Women should wear conservative dresses, business suits, or trousers and shirts.
- Flip-flops, very high heels, and sneakers are not permitted in court.
- Avoid wearing very bright colors or black overall.
- Wear only necessary jewelry such as wedding rings or watches. Do not wear heavy bracelets, earrings, or necklaces.
- Avoid any clothing that is revealing or has explicit language or images on it.
- Cover the visible tattoo.
- Sunglasses and hats must be removed before entering the courtroom.
Step 2. Tell your friends about all courtroom rules
If your friends or family are going to be at court, they need to know how to present themselves.
- All participants in the courtroom must make plans to arrive on time for the reading.
- The use of cell phones in the courtroom is prohibited.
- Participants may not eat, drink, or chew gum in the courtroom.
- Children are allowed in most courtrooms, but they must remain calm and respect the proceedings. Disturbing children may be expelled from the courtroom.
- All conversations must take place outside the courtroom.
Step 3. Know what time your reading is and arrive early
You must arrive early and wait outside the courtroom until you are called.
- Call the court ahead of time if you don't know what time you need to be there.
- Plan additional time to find a parking space or use public transportation.
- When you arrive at the courthouse, ask the court clerk where you should wait.
Step 4. Be prepared to go through security
Most courthouses have security checkpoints.
- You may have to go through a metal detector. Be sure to remove all metal objects from clothing.
- Do not bring weapons into the courthouse. Such items are prohibited.
- Avoid carrying drugs and cigarette products. Never bring illegal drugs into the courthouse.
Step 5. Treat everyone you meet with respect
Remember to make eye contact with the people you are talking to.
- Always say "Thank you" to everyone who gives directions or provides service.
- You never know who you might run into outside the courtroom. The person waiting in line at security or in an elevator may be a judge, a lawyer, or a member of the jury.
- Maintain a neat and clean appearance at all times in the courthouse. Don't take off your tie or coat.
- You may drink, eat and smoke only in the space provided.
Part 2 of 3: Behaving Well in Court
Step 1. Listen to any instructions given by the clerk or bailiff
This member of staff will direct you to where you should wait for the reading and where to sit during the reading.
- Ask the bailiff or bailiff about how to name a judge. Some judges may prefer "Your Majesty" or another title.
- Arrive early and ask the bailiff where you should sit.
- Pay attention to any advice given by the bailiff or bailiff.
Step 2. Wait quietly during the reading until you are invited to speak
Don't have any side conversations or let your attention be distracted.
- Sit up straight and watch the proceedings.
- You won't know what's going on if you don't pay attention.
- Do not chew gum, drink, or eat during the reading.
- Turn off the phone during the trial process. Most courts prohibit the use of cell phones.
- It is important to be as calm as possible during the trial process as most court readings are recorded using electronic devices.
Step 3. Pay attention to your body language during the reading
You'll want to appear polite during the reading.
- Do not roll your eyes or frown in response to others during the reading.
- Do not move your hands and feet during the trial process. Resist the urge to show body restlessness while sitting.
- Keep your attention on the trial process. Make eye contact with the person speaking to show that you are listening.
Part 3 of 3: Honoring the Court
Step 1. Don't talk unless asked to
Cutting off the words of anyone who is speaking is bad manners in a courtroom.
- The judge will not accept anyone who cuts him off or anyone else in the courtroom.
- The judge may ask you to leave the courtroom if you cause a disturbance.
- Distractions in the trial process will cause unnecessary confusion during the reading.
- Remember that body language can also be a nuisance to other people. So, stay in control and calm during the reading.
Step 2. Stand up when it's your turn to speak
This is courtroom protocol.
- You must always stand up when speaking before a judge or trial, unless asked to do otherwise.
- You may be asked to sit on the witness stand during questioning.
- Speak loudly and clearly in a polite tone when speaking to the judge.
- When you're done speaking, briefly thank the judge for his attention.
Step 3. Call the judge politely
The judge is the representative of the trial and the law. He must be respected.
- Some judges may have a special title that they prefer.
- Ask the bailiff or bailiff before the scheduled reading, what name the judge prefers to be called.
- When in doubt, address the judge as "Your Majesty" until told otherwise.
Step 4. Answer the questions clearly and carefully
Always answer every question honestly and as best you can. Lying in court is considered perjury and can lead to lawsuits if caught.
- There is no reason for you to rush every question. It's okay to take a break and think for a few seconds before answering a question.
- If you don't understand a question, ask for an explanation.
- Answer questions in a clear and loud voice.
- Maintain eye contact with the judge or trial officer while they are speaking to you. This attitude shows that you are paying attention.
- Don't respond to questions unless you're ready. Some lawyers may try to pressure you into responding quickly, but don't answer questions unless you're sure you understand them.
- Asking questions quickly can lead to confusion and inaccuracies in the trial process.
Step 5. Speak in a respectful tone of voice, use polite language, and pay attention to your body language
You have to show respect at all times.
- Don't use too much non-verbal communication during a question. Do not use body language such as waving or pointing during the trial.
- Don't criticize others in the courtroom, even if you're feeling emotional. You should especially avoid criticizing judges and bailiffs.
- Do not use derogatory language or swear words in the courtroom.
- Keep your body language neutral.
Step 6. Stay calm and in control during the reading
Anger will make you look reckless and untrustworthy in the eyes of the court.
- You can ask the judge to prescribe a short break if you find yourself getting angry. Use this time to calm down.
- Most judges prefer that you take a few minutes to cool off rather than cause a disturbance in the courtroom.
- The judge may accuse you of contempt of court for causing disturbance in the courtroom, yelling, using aggressive spoken or body language, or acting disrespectfully.
- If you are angry before a judge and jury, your reputation will be affected by your anger. You may lose the support of a judge or jury if you don't behave with respect.
