Unfortunately, quite often life circumstances force us to go to court. And it doesn’t matter what caused this – divorce, a dispute with an insurance company or with your employer, or even a serious criminal case that you witnessed. Everyone who is forced to cross the threshold of the courthouse should clearly know that they should behave according to the rules while in the courthouse. So, let’s look at the basic rules of behavior of a citizen in court.
Most likely, you came to the court session on a subpoena. Therefore, you must immediately inform the secretary of the meeting about your attendance. Next, you need to be patient and wait until the actual court session begins, and when you will be called to it. Unfortunately, sometimes the wait can be very long, so do not be surprised if instead of the 2-3 hours you planned, you spend your entire working day in the courthouse.
In whatever capacity you are not summoned to court, do not lose optimism and know that your case will certainly be considered. While waiting, try not to leave the office you need, because you can be called at any time, and no one is obliged to look for you in the courthouse.
During the court session, do not behave defiantly, even if you came to court as a victim. It will be better if you manage your excitement and stay calm and confident. Do not get distracted and do not “go into yourself”, even if you have already testified – listen to the orders of the presiding officer, because they may concern you personally.
Any citizen has his own rights in court, depending on his status, which the judge will definitely tell him about before the start of the meeting. If you are worried that you will not remember all of them, then study them in advance, at home and in a relaxed atmosphere.
All citizens should be aware that judges must stand up when entering the courtroom. You also need to get up when you answer questions asked or give your testimony. It is better to address the presiding judge like this – “Your Honor” or more formally – “Dear Court”.
In its main speech, in your questions, answers and explanations, it is necessary to speak only on the merits and within the framework of the case under consideration. Do not leave the topic, otherwise you simply will not have time to talk about the essence. But, at the same time, when setting out your requirements, do it clearly, clearly and reasonably. So that you do not get in the way of emotions understandable in this case, repeat your main speech at home several times.
Even when listening to an opponent who may be lying in his speech, do not interrupt him and give him the opportunity to speak. Write down all your questions and comments on his speech and then ask the court for the opportunity to announce them. If you have documents in your hands that confirm your innocence, hand them over to the court.
If you came to the court session with your lawyer or representative, agree with him in advance on all possible lines of your behavior. Remember that you always have the right to ask the court to adjourn to consult with your attorney or representative.
If you have something to supplement your testimony, then do it when the judge asks if anyone else has a desire to speak. Don’t be embarrassed that you may not have remembered something in your first speech. Any questions you may have about the organization of the court session, its conduct, or any other points or situations related to the consideration of your case, you must ask the judge directly before he announces that the session is closed.
