Courtroom Etiquette 

Please be advised the Court will enforce these rules.
In extreme cases violators may be removed from the courtroom.

1. Disruptive behavior such as talking, laughing, or shouting will not be tolerated. Unless addressing the court, ALL other conversations should be carried on outside the courtroom.

2. All phones MUST be turned off or placed in a silent/vibrate mode, or they are subject to confiscation by the court bailiff.

3. Reading materials unrelated to the business of the Court may be used in the courtroom only at the discretion of the presiding judge.

4. All use of cameras is prohibited in the courtroom.

5. All use of recording devices in the courtroom by other than authorized court personnel is prohibited.

6. Weapons of any sort are prohibited.

7. Timely arrival is mandatory.

8. Eating, drinking and chewing gum are prohibited in the courtroom.

9. Appropriate dress is required in the courtroom.  Wear trousers instead of shorts.  Do not wear t-shirts, to include t-shirts with vulgar or profane text or images.  Do not wear jerseys or sports apparel.  Do not wear tank tops.  Shoes are required; do not wear flip flops.  Do not wear tinted or dark glasses.

10. Children may be present in the courtroom.  If, however, they disturb the proceedings, they must be escorted out of the courtroom.

11. Parties should always stand when speaking to the judge.  Please let the judge know if you have a physical impairment that would make this difficult.

12. Always address the judge as, “Your Honor,” not, “Sir” or, “Ma’am.”  Speak only to your attorney or to someone who directly addresses you, such as the judge or bailiff.  Do not use slang or curse words when addressing the Judge.

13. Treat the Court, court personnel and your opposing counsel as you wish to be treated—with dignity and respect.

14. Maintain at least a minimum level of formality. In the courtroom and on the record, opposing counsel should not be referred to on a first name basis.

15. If entering or exiting the courtroom while court is in session please ensure that the door closes QUIETLY behind you.

16. Wet outer garments and umbrellas should be stored in the waiting area in a safe manner that does not obstruct access to the courtroom.

*** Outside of court hearings, any communication with the Judges should be in written form. ***