Legal Law

Courtroom Etiquette

When people think of Las Vegas, they envision a bar with rich people and beautiful girls all around them, gambling their money and partying the night away. However, it is not just about that. No wonder the fun is unlimited here, but also the crime rate here is quite high. Therefore, a Las Vegas criminal defense attorney is a highly sought after person. The job of a Las Vegas criminal defense attorney is to help their client get out of trouble. Court hearings are held and the judge decides whether the person is guilty or not guilty. However, before entering the courtroom, he should be well versed in courtroom etiquette. After all, nothing can be more embarrassing than coming across as a less than gracious individual in front of a judge. The following are some guidelines that will help you maintain good court manners;

• Hygiene is the most primary of all ways. Of course, this should be something you would consider the basic part, but this is just as important as everything else. Brush your teeth before the hearing, wear clean clothes, and never smoke just for a while before your session. Shave if you don’t have a beard or mustache.

• Dress well. Your attractiveness reflects your true personality. Although a suit and tie would be nice, but it is not necessary at all times. An impeccable shirt, well tucked in, would be a respectful avatar. Women are also required to dress semi-formally, just to denote respect to the court and jury. Women should dress to stay modest and a bit conservative, don’t dress too much or wear anything that might be revealing.

• Respect the judge. Now, this is not limited to ‘everyone on your feet!’ You should never interrupt the judge. Let him speak and wait your turn. The judge can interrupt you, but for the sake of her impression on him/her, you should not make that attempt. Also, you should never argue with the judge. Remember, if he/she is saying something that is not in your favor, begging and arguing will not move him/her.

• Always address attorneys as “sir” and “ma’am.” As for the judge, don’t even think of addressing him/her without the title “his honor of him” from him. This is the only title you should address him/her with, “sir” or “ma’am” will not do.

• You should never speak unless asked to do so. He remains seated and silent until he is called in for questioning. Although some people may interrupt the session to get the attention of the jury, this is not a sensible act.

• When questioned, you must speak correctly and appropriately. Use polite words. Thank the judge, but don’t go overboard to make him upset. Use “yes” and “no” instead of “yes” or “no.” Lawyers are also referred to with manners. For example, use “Mr. Martin” instead of “Marty.”

• When defending the judge, stand up straight. You should also not sit down before the judge sits down.

• Turn off your cell phones or at least put them on silent mode when the hearing is about to take place. When you have to answer your phone, walk away from the courtroom.