R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Signs of respect or disrespect for the court
- shorts (not even “dress shorts”)
- tank tops
- tops that show midriff
- tshirts with slogans and pictures on them that may be offensive, controversial, or un-businesslike (avoid tshirts altogether if you can, unless you must wear them as part of an appropriate work uniform)
- Flip-flops
Behavior Modification
- A show of temper while on the stand or in front of the judge (towards the judge, opposing counsel, or your own attorney)
- A show of temper anywhere in or near the courtroom
- Using obscenities or obscenity substitutes (everyone knows what you really mean)
- Losing your respectful business-like demeanor
- Making statements that blame others and don’t take responsibility for your own behavior
- (for family law cases) Not putting your kids first.
REMEMBER- You have a very short time to make your case. A few minutes of bad behavior in the courtroom can sabotage hours of research and preparation.
Make sure you maintain a professional, polite demeanor in the courtroom, no matter what happens. Inform your attorney if you are worried about how to behave in court and and prepare yourself in advance to deal with your frustration in a constructive way.