Courtroom Etiquette

Dressing for Court

 If you are appearing in Court you should dress nicely and in a manner that shows respect for the court.

Here are some things you should NOT wear:

• Hats inside the courtroom (except those worn for religious purposes - male or female) 
• T-shirts depicting violence, sexual acts, profanity, or illegal drugs
• Sunglasses 
• Miniskirts or shorts
• Tube or halter tops/plunging necklines or midriffs
• Baggy pants that fall below the waist
• Ripped or torn jeans 
• Pajamas
• Bare feet – shoes are required 
• Muscle shirts (usually worn as undergarments)

Cell Phone and Pagers

When Appearing in Court

•  Be on time 
•  Always address the judge as “Your Honor”
• Throw away gum, food, and drinks before entering the courtroom 
• Enter and leave the courtroom quietly so you do not disturb others
• Stand when you are speaking to the judge 
• Only approach the bench when instructed to do so
• Stand when the judge enters or leaves the courtroom 
• Never interrupt the judge. If you are unsure of what you heard, wait until the judge or other person speaking at your hearing has finished talking before asking a question
• Speak clearly when you respond to the judge’s questions

Children in the Courtroom

The public is also hereby notified that as this is a court of law, the Court will not allow distractions to invade, interrupt, or otherwise disturb the dignity and solemnity of court proceedings. As court generally is not an appropriate place for children, the Court asks parents and guardians to seriously consider whether it is necessary for a child to attend court. When a child is present in court, he or she should not present a distraction to the Courts orderly function and process.