Court Etiquette

Courtroom etiquette is the code that governs the conduct of persons in the courtroom. A trial is a solemn inquiry. This solemnity is maintained by the behavior of persons in the courtroom.

The first step in advocacy is to create a favorable impression.

1. Dress
   Be sure you, your witnesses, and supporters are neatly dressed.
2. Terms of Address
   • Address others in the courtroom:
     • The judge as “Your Honor”;
     • The prosecutor by title and surname “Mr. Doe or Ms. Jones” or as Mr. or Madam Counsel.
     • The Sheriff as “Mr. or Madam Sheriff”;
     • The court clerk as “Mr. or Madam Clerk”
     • The witness by title and surname. If the witness is a child then by Miss or Mr. and surname or if the child consents then by first name.
   • Never refer to a person by first name only.
3. Decorum
   • Be on time. Go to the courtroom and stay there until your name is called.
   • Go into the courtroom and remain there until your case is called.
   • Speak calmly and clearly. Do not interrupt others.
   • Stand when you speak and when the judge speaks to you.
   • Do not use slang unless it is a direct quote from the evidence and necessary for your submission.
   • Do not make facial expressions or gestures. This can be distracting and may give the judge a poor impression. Tell supporters not to do this.
   • Never give a document directly to a witness or the Judge. Tell the person you want him or her to look at a document and pass it to the Court Clerk.
   • Do not argue with the Judge. Once a Judge makes a decision do not try to re-argue or continue arguing.
   • If you do not understand a part of the proceeding then ask the Judge. He or she will explain the procedure and try to give you reasonable assistance.