Many people have only seen the inside of a courtroom on television, in the movies, or in a history book. But if you are a litigant in a civil or criminal case, the courtroom suddenly becomes a real place, with real people, with real outcomes. Not surprisingly, people who attend court for the first or second time do so with some trepidation and fear. In fact, attorneys who regularly practice in the courtroom will some times admit that they too share those same fears when they walk through the courthouse doors. While it is understandable that people come to court with some hesitation, the courthouse is a place to ensure justice for all and to vindicate your rights. Hopefully this post can help alleviate your concerns and worries.
The first thing to remember is that the Courthouse is a public place. It is open to the public, and its function is to serve the community. The staff members at the courthouse recognize this important function, and they treat the community members with respect and courtesy. If you need helping finding a courtroom or filing a document, ask a staff member, and the staff member can point you in the right direction.
When attending court, it is important to take steps in preparation for your visit. First, make sure you know the date and time of your hearing. There are many cases and people involved in the courthouse, and the courthouse follows a set schedule of hearings. If you appear late for court, you may forfeit your opportunity to present a case or make an argument. Plan to appear at least 15 minutes before the scheduled court appearance. Call the court in advance of the hearing to learn of the date and time, review the document (such as the motion, petition, pleading, or summons) that tells you the date and time of court, or go to the Court's website to find the date and time.
As you prepare for court, make sure that your appearance is appropriate for the courtroom setting. Although the attorneys will appear in professional suits and attire, you are not required to wear the same professional outfit. You may, if you wish, wear a suit and tie, or a professional dress, but it is not mandatory. On the other hand, wearing a t-shirt and shorts likely does not portray the proper respect and dignity the court deserves. Perhaps the best advice is to wear something that is comfortable to you, but also shows the court that you are serious about the case and wish to be treated with respect. Wearing a hat in the courtroom is not permitted.
Once in the courtroom, listen for the Judge to call the case and invite you to speak. Some times people become anxious because they want to tell the Court every thing on their mind, and wish to do so when others are talking. Please be patient as every person gets an equal opportunity to speak. Because everything in the court proceeding is recorded, only one person may speak at a time. After the Judge is finished speaking, one party will have an opportunity to speak, followed by the opposing party. If the Court needs clarification, the Judge will likely ask follow-up questions and give you a chance to answer.
While in court, treat each opposing side with respect and dignity. A court appearance is not an opportunity to yell and scream at an angry neighbor or former spouse. It is a chance to present your case to the Court and to apply legal and equitable principles to each factual scenario. You will have an opportunity to be heard in a respectful and peaceful manner. At the end of the case, the Judge will either announce the ruling on the request, or inform the parties that a ruling will be issued in written form in the near future.
One last reminder: turn your cell phones off when you enter the courtroom. There is nothing more embarrassing then having a cell phone go off in the middle of a case.
No comments:
Post a Comment