Courtroom Etiquette

  • It is important to speak to others in the courtroom in a respectful way. For example, use formal titles such as Your Honour for the Judge and Mr./ Ms./ Miss or Mrs. (with their last name) for other adults. You may and often are asked your preferred pronouns/how you would like to be addressed and counsel will do the same at the beginning of trial.

  • You are required to stand when the judge enters the courtroom, and remain standing until he/she sits. Basically, if they stand you stand.

  • So, the bowing, you are supposed to bow when the judge enters the courtroom, and when they leave. You also bow if you need to leave when court is still in session. I bow when I get up from my seat and when I get to the courtroom door. Don't worry if you forget! It is a lot to remember.

  • Make sure your phone is completely turned off and mute or take off any smartwatches.

  • Also, to show respect, do not make faces when you do not like something that was said, no matter how much you may want to roll your eyes.

  • Never argue with the judge and try not to argue with defence counsel or lose your cool no matter how upset you might be.

  • Speak clearly, and slowly, and keep your voice up so that the judge can hear your answers. Most courtroom microphones are used to record witnesses’ voices, not necessarily to make them louder.

  • Give your answers out loud. The microphone cannot record a nod or a head shake.

  • Make sure the lawyer has finished talking before you answer.

  • Look around the entire courtroom if you are asked to identify the accused before you answer.

  • Always tell the truth, without exaggeration or guessing - try not to use phrases like “I think” or “I guess”. If you are sure that something happened, say so. If you are not sure, say “I’m not sure” or “I don’t remember”.

  • Answer the question and then stop. Do not give unnecessary or irrelevant information. The judge and jury are interested only in the facts. Don’t give opinions or draw conclusions unless the lawyer or judge asks you to.

  • Take a deep breath and carefully consider and listen to the question before answering.

  • If you do not understand or hear the question, ask for the question to be repeated or reworded.

  • When someone objects, stop answering and do not continue to answer the question until asked the question again.

  • When someone objects, stop answering and do not continue to answer the question until asked the question again.

  • If a certain version of events is suggested to you, do not agree with it unless you are sure it’s really accurate. Your memory is what is important.

  • The most important thing is that you take your time and be honest.