I love to watch the court programs on TV.I am a fan of Judge Mathis, Judge Judy, Judge Joe Brown, Judge Christina, The People’s Court, etc.While people want to win their case, I have seen some very inappropriate behaviors which diminish their credibility.It has come to my attention that people, particularly young people, have no clue as to how to act in a court of law, even if it is on TV.So in an effort to help people stop making a fool of themselves in TV court or any court, I have developed some guidelines.
1.Dress appropriately – Remember the 3 Bs – no boobs,
belly or butt should be showing.Conservative dress
is best.For men a suit and tie are best - at least an
ironed shirt with a tie and long pants.For women a suit or
dress and heels are best – something that covers the
body but not too tightly.
2.Address the Judge as “Your Honor” or Judge (last name).
3.Do not try to talk at the same time the Judge is speaking.
Pay attention to the questions asked by the Judge and answer
appropriately.
4.Watch your body language.Do not roll your eyes, wave
hands or clinch fists.If nervous, hold on to the podium or
chair.
5.Never walk out before you are dismissed.
6.Bring all your documentation relevant to your case.
7.Never use curse words.
8.Do not argue with another person in front of the Judge.
9.Stop talking when the Judge tells you to stop talking.
If you want to win your case, project an image of respect for the court.Understand the image you project impacts your credibility.
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Comment posted: Apr 01 2009 12:32 pm by: Fran
I was amazed!! You should go sit in a courtroom today and see how folks act and dress. It is crazy. I was amazed at not only the lack of appropriate attire but the behaviors from not only the observers but some of the lawyers too. It was funny... geez maybe I have become my mother LOL
Dianne Floyd Sutton is President of Sutton Enterprises, author, trainer, educator, facilitator, expert witness, coach and actor. She has twenty-five years of combined experience in Human Resource Development (HRD) and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) training. And she has twenty years of business experience as Sutton Enterprises.
