Certain behaviors are not allowed in the courtroom because they are noisy, distracting, or disrespectful. Do not bring food or drink (other than water) into the courtroom. You should generally not chew gum, sleep, use earphones, or use cameras, including cell phone cameras, in the courtroom. If cell phones are allowed, you should either turn them on silent or vibrate or turn them off completely.
While waiting for your case to be called, please be respectful to other court users by waiting quietly. As a reminder, if your hearing is set on a mass calendar, there will likely be a wait time before your case is called.
When your case is called, please follow any instructions from court staff and the Judge/Referee. When the Judge/Referee enters the courtroom, you will be expected to stand up; someone will likely say “all rise.”
During your hearing, be sure to listen carefully, talk directly to the Judge/Referee and not the other party, avoid arguing with or interrupting others, and try to control your emotions. If you do not understand something that the other party or the Judge/Referee is saying, make sure you ask questions.
When you speak to the Judge/Referee, start by saying "Your Honor." Be sure to speak loudly and clearly and remember that only one person can speak at a time. Typically, everything said in the courtroom is being recorded, so in order to record information accurately, it’s important that only one person speak at a time.
Use your prepared outline to keep your thoughts on track and make sure you cover your most important points. The amount of time you have to speak will be up to the Judge/Referee, so be sure to focus on what is most important to your case.
