How to Make a More Effective Appearance in Court: Courtroom Etiquette

Etiquette is important for making a good impression. This is especially true in court. Courts are very formal places and there is an expectation that everyone in court, including witnesses, and parties to cases, will behave in a respectful way.

Below are some guidelines and suggestions about how to act in the courtroom.

Before Your Hearing

• It is very important to show up to any and all hearings on time or early (15-30 minutes)
• Dress professionally and come to the courthouse clean, well-groomed, and conservatively dressed. Dress like you are going to a job interview for an office position.
• Make sure that you turn off cellular phones or other electronic devices.
• Be respectful and polite to everyone.
• Stand up when the judge enters or leaves the courtroom.

During Your Hearing

•  Stay calm and collected. If you need to calm down, take a deep breath and count to 5 in your head.
• Speak loudly and clearly when testifying.
• Listen to the question your attorney asks you and answer that question. Try not to go off on tangents when answering your attorney’s questions or responding to the opposing attorney’s questions.
• It is important to stop talking if you are testifying and you hear an attorney say “Objection”.
• If the judge ask you questions directly, address the judge as “Your Honor” and be respectful and courteous when responding.

Call Jane Gekhman at (940) 222-6014 if you are going through a family law matter. We can help.