Courtroom etiquette

A court hearing is a formal proceeding, and everyone in the room is expected to act with respect. That applies whether you are a party, a witness, a juror or a spectator.

Arriving and going through security

Plan to arrive early. Court guidance suggests being at the courtroom 15 minutes before your hearing, and you will need extra time to park, pass through security and find the right room. Double check the date, time and location on your paperwork.

Members of the public must pass through security screening to enter a court facility. Bags are inspected, and you may be asked to walk through a metal detector. Anyone who refuses screening is denied entry. Weapons are not permitted, and the statewide court security rules define weapons to include firearms, knives and pepper spray. Leave those items at home or locked in your vehicle. Tell the officer if you have an implanted medical device.

Dress, phones and food

You do not need new clothes. Wear something clean and neat, and avoid clothing with written messages, symbols or profanity. Switch your phone and other devices to silent before you enter the courtroom. Food, drinks and chewing gum are not allowed inside. Courts can have their own local rules of conduct, so ask the circuit court clerk’s office if you are unsure about a rule.

How to act in the courtroom

• If a bailiff is at the door, ask before you enter. Some hearings are closed to the public.
• Once the judge enters, do not talk, whisper or pass notes.
• Address the judge as “Your Honor,” and refer to others as Mr., Mrs. or Ms.
• Speak clearly and answer out loud, not with a nod.
• Do not interrupt anyone, especially the judge. You will get a turn to speak.
• If you do not understand a question, you may respectfully ask for it to be explained.

Children, interpreters and accommodations

Court guidance advises against bringing children to the courthouse unless a judge has ordered it or the child will be a witness. If you cannot avoid it, bring another adult to watch them while you are in the courtroom.

If you have limited English or are deaf or hard of hearing, you have a right to a court-appointed interpreter at no cost to you. Local courts schedule interpreters, so contact the court where your case will be heard as early as you can. People with disabilities may also ask for reasonable accommodations, such as assistive listening devices or large-print documents. The court system asks for requests at least 48 hours ahead when possible. Service animals are permitted in court facilities.