In order to have the best chance at success in your case, it is highly recommended that you follow courtroom etiquette guidelines. These are simple rules and minor details, but every little bit could help you. The judge and jury will take into account how you present yourself.
Courtroom Etiquette
You should:
- Arrive on time.
- Refer to the judge as “Your Honor.”
- Be polite to the court staff, opposing counsel, and judge.
- Wear formal attire that would be appropriate for business.
- Rise when the jury and judge enter and leave the courtroom.
- Turn off your cellphone and all electronic devices prior to entering the courtroom.
- Stand when questioning a witness, making or meeting an objection, or speaking to the judge.
- Direct all remarks and concerns to your attorney and not the judge or opposing counsel unless prompted.
You should be on your best behavior or else the judge and jury could view you in a negative light, thereby harming your case before it even begins.
You should not:
- Interrupt others while they are speaking.
- Be rude to anyone inside or outside the courtroom.
- Bring dangerous or sharp metal objects through the metal detector.
Examples of items that you should not bring with you include scissors, firearms, illegal drugs, knives, and more. If you are unsure if you should bring a certain item with you to the courtroom, reach out to the Edgett Law Firm and speak with our knowledgeable criminal defense attorney in Plano. We can provide you with well-informed advice and effective legal services throughout each stage of the proceedings. We have successfully helped thousands of clients resolve their criminal defense problems, and we can help you, too.