Court Etiquette: How to Behave in Court

Walking into a courtroom for the first time can be intimidating. The U.S. Courts website provides an overview of how courts work. Knowing how to dress, speak, and conduct yourself shows respect for the court and helps you make a favorable impression on the judge.

Dress Code

What to Wear

• Business casual or business professional
• Clean, pressed clothing
• Conservative colors (navy, black, gray)
• Closed-toe shoes
• Minimal jewelry

What NOT to Wear

• Shorts or tank tops
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Hats or caps (remove in courtroom)
• Clothing with offensive messages
• Revealing or very casual clothing
• Sunglasses

Dress Guidelines by Court

• Small claims: Business casual acceptable
• Civil court: Business professional preferred
• Federal court: Business professional required

Arriving at Court

Before You Go

• Know exact courtroom location
• Plan for parking/transit
• Allow time for security screening
• Bring all documents and evidence
• Have case number handy

What to Leave Behind

• Weapons (even pocket knives)
• Large bags when possible
• Food and drinks
• Unnecessary electronics

Arrive Early

• 30 minutes early minimum
• Security lines can be long
• Time to find courtroom
• Check in with clerk if required

In the Courtroom

General Behavior

• Stand when judge enters and exits
• Remain seated unless called
• No talking while court is in session
• Turn off cell phone (or silent)
• No gum, food, or drinks
• No reading newspapers or books

While Waiting

• Sit quietly in gallery
• Review your notes silently
• Listen to other cases (learn procedure)
• Don't chat loudly with others

Addressing the Judge

Proper Terms

• "Your Honor"
• "Judge [Last Name]"
• "The Court"
• Never use first name

Speaking to the Court

• Stand when speaking
• Wait to be recognized before speaking
• Speak clearly and at normal volume
• Address the judge, not opposing party
• Say "Yes, Your Honor" not just "yeah"

When It's Your Turn

Presenting Your Case

• Stand at counsel table or podium
• State your name clearly
• Be concise and organized
• Stick to relevant facts
• Have documents ready to present

Key Rules

• Don't interrupt anyone
• Wait for judge to finish questions
• Answer questions directly
• Say "I don't know" if you don't
• Don't argue with the judge's rulings

Interacting with Opposing Party

Do

• Remain calm and professional
• Refer to them by name or "the plaintiff/defendant"
• Let judge control the conversation
• Focus on facts, not personalities

Don't

• Interrupt their presentation
• Make faces or gestures
• Argue directly with them
• Make personal attacks
• Roll your eyes or sigh loudly

Common Courtroom Phrases

What You'll Hear

• "All rise" - stand up
• "Be seated" - sit down
• "Approach the bench" - come to judge's desk
• "Sustained" - objection accepted
• "Overruled" - objection rejected
• "Stricken" - ignore that testimony

Useful Phrases

• "May I approach, Your Honor?"
• "I'd like to offer Exhibit A"
• "I object, Your Honor"
• "No further questions"
• "Thank you, Your Honor"

After the Hearing

When It's Over

• Wait for judge to leave first
• Gather your documents quietly
• Don't discuss case in hallway loudly
• Don't confront opposing party
• Get copy of any orders issued

If You Disagree with Ruling

• Accept it gracefully in court
• Ask about appeal rights calmly
• Don't argue or plead
• File proper appeal if warranted

Small Claims Specifics

More Informal, But Still

• Same dress code applies
• Same respect for judge required
• Procedures may be relaxed
• Judge may ask more questions
• Still professional environment