Courtroom Etiquette

It is important to remember that appearance and proper conduct are important when appearing before the court.

  1. Expectations of Court Atendees
  2. Timeliness
  3. Appearance

All persons present in the courtroom shall be clean, neat, and dressed in an appropriate manner, and conduct themselves in a respectful manner reflecting the dignity, honor, and respect for the court.

Courtroom Conduct

Electronic Devices

  • All cellular phones and pagers must be turned off or placed on vibrate mode while in the courtroom
  • Failure to do so could result in you being asked to leave the courtroom
  • No computers and/or tablets, games, recording devices, or other disruptive electronic devices are allowed in the courtroom

Weapons

  • Weapons (guns and knives) are strictly prohibited in the courthouse except those carried or possessed by commissioned peace officer
  • Items such as pocket knives, scissors, or anything deemed as unacceptable will be confiscated upon entry to the building
  • Certain confiscated items will be held and may be returned upon departure

Reading Material

  • Reading materials such as newspapers and books are not allowed while court is in session

Children

  • Avoid bringing small children to court
  • If you must, please monitor their behavior so they remain quiet at all times
  • Parents may be asked to leave the courtroom if their child becomes noisy or unruly and must remain in the lobby

Conduct

  • All persons must rise when the judge enters or leaves the courtroom, and must remain standing until the judge or bailiff instructs the audience to be seated.
  • Remain quiet while court is in session
  • Failure to do so could result in you being asked to leave the courtroom
  • When addressing the judge, do not lean on the bench.

Smoking, Eating or Drinking

  • No smoking or use of tobacco products will be allowed in the courtroom
  • No food, drinks, or gum chewing is allowed in the courtroom
  • You will be asked to leave the courtroom if you are in possession of any of these items