Courtroom Etiquette

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

Being on Time
It is also very important to be on time for all court appearances. You must be present in the courtroom when your name is called on the docket. A warrant may be issued for your arrest if you fail to answer when your name is called.

Appearance
Unacceptable courtroom attire includes:

  • Shorts
  • Pants revealing under garments and/or with excessive holes
  • Caps and/or hats (all types)
  •  Muscle shirts, halter tops, crop tops, tank tops
  •  Flip flops or sandals without a strap around the back of the heel
  •  T-shirts or other clothing items displaying offensive, vulgar, racist, sexist, gang related, obscene language, and/or graphics
  • Provocative clothing styled or worn to disrupt/distract 

Courtroom Conduct

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

Weapons
Weapons (guns and knives) are strictly prohibited in the courthouse except those carried or possessed by commissioned peace officers.  Also, 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 Materials
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.