10 Simple Tips for Your Day In Court
Sept. 3, 2024
Going to court is something that happens to many people, for many different reasons. Being prepared, regardless of your case's circumstances, helps you achieve your goals more successfully. It's normal to be nervous before you enter a courtroom and speak to a judge. Whether you are a plaintiff, defendant, or witness, there are a few things everyone can do to ensure they are ready for their day in court.
These 10 tips can help you prepare and navigate your day in court with respect, confidence, and dignity.
1. Dress in Simple Formal Attire
What should you wear to court?
Dress formally for a court date, but not fancily. In most cases, the term is "dress for success," but when going to court, you are "dressing for respect." Your attire shows the judge that you take the situation seriously and you respect the formality of the courtroom.
Wear simple yet formal attire, such as a dress shirt and plain dark slacks. In some situations, it is wise to avoid dressing "above your means." For example, don't wear an overly expensive outfit when making claims about your inability to make ends meet.
2. Pack Your Court Bag
Bring everything you will need in the courtroom, and have it well-organized when you arrive. The best way to do this is to pack a bag carefully the day before your court date.
Paperwork and Documents (in triplicate)
Pen, Pencil, and Notepad
Phone (fully charged)
Notes with your planned statements
Specific Materials
Organize your paperwork and documents in a binder. Anything the judge needs to see, pack in a triplicate (three copies). Have something to take notes with (that isn't your phone).
Lastly, don't forget to charge your phone and pack it in your bag.
3. Eat a Calming Meal Beforehand
Food and court dates don't always get along. Eat something that calms your stomach to help with both hunger and anxiety before your court date. Since hearings can vary in length, ranging from a few minutes to several hours, it's a good idea to have a light meal beforehand. You can pack snacks for hearing breaks, as long as you don't eat them in the courtroom.
You may also want to bring money for vending machines. During longer hearings, courts usually provide vending machines with snacks and drinks for breaks. But don't snack on anything that might upset your stomach.
4. Know the Route and Arrive Early
Do not risk arriving late. Tardiness does not look good to a judge and might even be viewed as missing or skipping your court date.
Study the route and plan to arrive at least a half-hour early. It may help to visit the courthouse and even navigate to your scheduled courtroom the week before your hearing. This will ensure you get there on time and don't get lost.
If you are too nervous to drive, call an Uber or have a friend drive you to court (again, leave quite early) to ensure you get there safely and on time.
5. Put Your Phone on Silent
Make sure to silence your phone before entering. Disruptions make a bad impression. Since the court discourages texting and phone activities, and buzzing can disrupt a quiet courtroom, turn your phone off completely. You can turn it back on when the hearing is over and during breaks.
6. Let Your Lawyer Take the Lead
When you arrive, meet with your lawyer and let them take the lead. Review your strategy, ask any final questions you have, and prepare to answer any questions the judge might ask.
Your lawyer will also help you know where to sit in the courtroom and will often do most of the talking, depending on the type of court case and your role in the proceedings. Trust your lawyer to guide and represent you through the experience.
7. Be Patient and Respectful
During the proceedings, keep your behavior and the way you speak both patient and respectful. Court is all about turn-taking, so wait until the judge indicates it is your turn to speak and carefully answer questions calmly and respectfully.
Don't let the other side get you upset, and don't interrupt the judge or anyone else. You can tell your lawyer if you want to refute a statement, but there may not always be an opportunity for rebuttals during formal proceedings. If asked an upsetting question, answer as respectfully and thoughtfully as possible according to your pre-determined legal strategy.
8. Take a Deep Breath If You Get Upset
It's normal to get upset in court. You may feel strongly about the situation. You may get frightened under the pressure, or something the other side says may anger you. It's OK to get upset, and the judge will understand. What is important is not to act out.
Instead, take a deep breath. You can request a moment to gather yourself, which is often the most respectful way to handle strong emotions. Then go back to your calm and respectful style of response.
9. When Speaking to the Judge
How do you speak to a judge properly in the courtroom? With just a few guidelines, you can show a judge respect and follow the expected procedures.
Refer to the judge as "your honor" or Judge
Answer questions calmly and respectfully.
Don't interrupt the judge.
Stop talking if the judge interrupts you.
Just remember that the judge is ultimately in charge of the conversation. Following these rules, you are more likely to be able to share your side of the story in full than if you jump ahead.
10. It's OK to Pass Notes with Your Lawyer
Lastly, if you need to discuss things with your lawyer, it is OK to pass notes. That is one of the reasons you brought the notepad and pen. Passing notes is the accepted way to communicate in a courtroom without interrupting the judge or speaking over whoever's "turn" to talk. People and their lawyers are the most likely to use notes to discuss the proceedings, ask questions, and strategize on the fly. Just be quiet and respectful in your manner.
Navigating Your Day in Court
If you need a lawyer who can help you through divorce and navigate successfully through your day in court, contact the Law Office of Jana K. Jones for a consultation on your case.