A guide to appropriate courtroom behaviour nowadays
Are you unclear on just how to conduct yourself in a courtroom setting? If yes, make certain to read through this overview.
The responsibility of the judge, jury and courtroom holds a great deal of weight in society, as shown by the Austria judiciary system for instance. Due to its importance, it is essential for people to do their research so that they understand all the set guidelines, policies and rules of a courtroom beforehand. Every person who steps foot inside a court room needs to abide by these requirements, whether they are a lawyer, observer, witness or jury member. If you have jury duty coming up here and you are uncertain on how to behave in court as a juror, the number one rule is to pay attention. Even though court proceedings can last a long time and there will be a lot of information to digest, it is necessary for jury participants to stay focused throughout. As a juror, it is your duty to listen attentively to the evidence and statements offered, making notes if permitted and not getting sidetracked by anything else. Another golden rule is to not talk about any of your ideas, feelings and opinions while the trial is underway, as the time for conversations is during the deliberation process.
Regardless of what sort of trial is going on, the courtroom will always be a serious, prestigious and reputable environment, as displayed by the Malta judiciary system for instance. The status of the court indicates that there is a certain etiquette that is expected of everybody who is present in the room. It may come as a surprise, but this even applies to lawyers as well. For example, the expected court etiquette for lawyers is decorum at all times. Lawyers need to maintain professionalism, adhere to the key values of the courtroom and treat all court workers with respect, specifically the judge in particular. This implies always addressing the judge as "your honour", standing when the judge addresses you and seeking permission before approaching the bench or speaking privately with a client. Even if the judge does something that you disagree with, it is your job as a lawyer to remain cool, calm and collected. Being composed is definitely fundamental; any visible or clear signs of outrage or irritation will not only look incompetent, but it could also impair the whole court room proceedings.
Every court is a respectable and distinguished place to be in, as displayed by the Slovenia judiciary system for example. If you are a spectator in court for the first time, it is normal to be not sure on what to do in a courtroom. Honestly, a lot of the courtroom etiquette for spectators boils down to simple common sense. For example, it is vital for spectators to turn up to court in appropriate clothing. Some courts have more stringent dress codes than others, but the general consensus is that the dress code is smart, professional and modest. Unsurprisingly, onlookers must also switch off their mobile phones or put them on aeroplane mode, along with any other technological devices which might make a noise or be used to record.