Courtroom Basics

So you have to go to court. Don’t be panicked, be prepared. Here are some tips on how you should behave and what you should expect.

WHAT TO WEAR
You don’t need to dress as if for a job interview. “Business casual” is fine; for men, that means a collared shirt, no tie and chinos. Women should avoid low-cut or exceptionally fashion-forward looks, as well as exaggerated shoes or heels. Hats, including baseball-type caps, cannot be worn in a courtroom. The idea is not to present a distraction, or anything else that might lead people to pass judgment upon you. 

WHAT TO BRING
Beyond a valid ID, of course, bring any paperwork that pertains to your case. Don’t assume that your attorney will bring copies unless you’ve checked with him or her beforehand. If you are seeking to collect a debt, for instance, you’ll need documents signed by the debtor indicating when the loan was made, the amount, and the terms for repayment. It’s almost impossible to prove anything without documentation.

HOW TO PREPARE
The night before your court appearance, put all of your relevant paperwork in one place, such as a briefcase or bag, where you’ll be sure to see and take it with you. Make sure you know exactly where your case is being held, right down to the floor and the room number. Confirm your transportation, and if parking is an issue know where you will park. Think about what you will say if you are called, and promise yourself you will not become upset or angry. Emotions belong in TV or movie courtrooms, not in the real world.

WHO, WHAT, WHERE
As you enter the courtroom, you’ll see the large wooden platform behind which the judge sits. This is called the “bench.” At one side of the room there should be an armed, uniformed sheriff or other law enforcement officer. This is the “bailiff,” who ensures safety in the courtroom.

In front of the bench, someone will be sitting with a small machine about the size of an iPad. This person’s fingers start to move as soon as the court is called into session, and never stop until court is dismissed. This is the court reporter, an important individual whose job is to transcribe everything said during the procedure. The transcription forms the court’s official record, so the court reporter needs to fully concentrate. Utah court reporter services provide professionals in their state. 

If you are a plaintiff or defendant in the case, you sit with your attorneys. If you are a witness, you stay in the audience until your name is called. The jury sits at the side of the room.

DO’s & DON’TS
If a family member or friend is involved in the case, and you have come to show support, do not call out, clap, or make any audible sounds during the session. Judges do not tolerate disturbances. 

Naturally, don’t bring food or drinks into the courtroom, and keep all electronic devices turned off. Never attempt to engage the bailiff, court reporter, or other courtroom personnel in conversation as long as the session lasts. Utah court reporter services confirm their employees cannot talk on the job. 

Follow these suggestions, arrive on time, and your courtroom proceeding will go smoothly. It may not be exciting or fun, but it is justice.