subject: 8 Tips On Manners In A Courtroom [print this page] When people consider Las Vegas, they imagine a casino with rich people with stunning ladies around them, betting their money and partying all night. However, it is not only about that. Undoubtedly excitement is unlimited here, but also the crime rate here is also mounting. A Las Vegas criminal defense attorney is thus a highly demanded person. The job of a Las Vegas criminal defense lawyer is to assist his client to get out of all the trouble. Court hearings are held and the jury decides whether the person is guilty or non guilty. However, before you enter the courtroom, you should be well aware with courtroom manners. After all, nothing can be more awkward than emerging as a manner less person in front of the judge. Following are some guidelines that will help you to practice good courtroom manners;
Hygiene is the most basic of all etiquettes. Of course, this must be something you'd think of as the basic part, but this is as essential as all the rest. Brush your teeth before the proceeding, wear tidy clothes and never smoke just a while before your session is to be held. Shave if you do not have a beard or a moustache.
Wear nice clothing. Your attire reflects your real personality. Even though a suit and a tie would do, but is not necessary at all times. A crisp shirt, nicely tucked in would be a respectful outfit. Women should also dress up semi formal, just to denote respect to the court and the jury. Ladies should wear modest clothes that are rather conservative in their look, do not be too fancy in what you wear and do not make it revealing.
Respect the judge. Now this does not end at 'all rise!' You should never interrupt the judge. Let him/her speak and wait for your time. The judge might cut you off but for the sake of your impression on him/her you should not make that attempt. Also you should never quarrel with the judge. Remember, if he/she is saying something that is not in your favor, pleading and quarreling will not move him.
Always address the lawyers as "sir" and "ma'am". As for the judge, never even consider addressing him/her without the title "your honor". This is the only title you should address him/her with, "sir" or "ma'am" will not be appropriate.
You must never speak until you are asked to do so. Stay seated and do not make a sound until you are asked to stand in the witness stand for the interrogation. Although a few people might cut off the session to achieve jury's attention, this is not a wise act.
When you are being interrogated, you should speak correctly and appropriately. Use courtesy words. Say thank you to the judge, but do not overdo it to make him/her irritated. Use "yes" and "no", instead of "yup" or "nope". Also address the lawyers with etiquettes. For example, use "Mr. Martin" rather than "Marty".
When you stand up for the judge, stand upright. Also you must not sit before the judge sits down.
Turn off your cell phones or at least set them at vibrating mode when the hearing is about to begin. When you have to answer your phone, move out of the courtroom.
