Etiquette

Courtroom Etiquette

All individuals present in the Courtroom are expected to conduct themselves with the highest level of professionalism and respect at all times. The Courtroom is a place of law and order, and behavior within it must reflect the seriousness and integrity of the judicial process.

All individuals must rise when the Judge enters or exits the room, unless physically unable to do so. No individual may speak unless recognized by the Judge. Interruptions, side conversations, and outbursts of any kind will not be tolerated. Cellular phones and electronic devices must be silenced or turned off prior to entering the Courtroom. Use of such devices during proceedings, unless authorized by the Court, is strictly prohibited.

Respect must be shown at all times to the Judge, Attorneys, Court Staff, Witnesses, and all other persons within the Courtroom. Failure to adhere to these expectations may result in a warning, removal from the Courtroom, or contempt of court charges at the discretion of the presiding Judge.

Courtroom Vocabulary and Language Use

Language used in the Courtroom shall be formal, respectful, and appropriate to the legal setting. All individuals addressing the Court must speak clearly and use proper titles when referring to others. The presiding Judge shall be addressed as “Your Honor” at all times. Attorneys shall refer to one another respectfully as “Counsel,” and parties involved in a case should be referred to by their formal titles (e.g., Mr., Ms., Officer, or Defendant), not by first names or informal terms.

Slang, profanity, and disrespectful or inflammatory language are strictly prohibited. Any use of language intended to provoke, insult, or intimidate others in the Courtroom will be grounds for immediate objection and may result in disciplinary action by the Judge, including removal from proceedings or contempt of court.

All testimony and legal argument must be presented in a clear, concise, and factual manner. Repetitive, exaggerated, or overly emotional language that disrupts the decorum of the Court will not be permitted. Attorneys are expected to guide their clients and witnesses on the appropriate tone and vocabulary expected during proceedings.

The Court values professionalism in both spoken and written communication. All written submissions, evidence labels, and legal filings must follow appropriate legal formatting and language standards. Any submission that contains inappropriate language or formatting may be rejected by the Court.

Maintaining respectful and proper vocabulary ensures fairness, neutrality, and the integrity of the judicial process.