If you are involved in a court case that will be tried in front of a judge or jury, there are a few steps to take to ensure you make a favorable impression. Here are some etiquette tips for you to use when you need to go to court, helping you to impress the judge and jury as a result.
Watch Your Actions
When you are in front of a courtroom, every motion you make is analyzed from where your eyes look to where you place your hands when you speak. Judges and lawyers are trained on behavioral movements to help them decide if you are lying or being truthful.
A lawyer can hone in on nervous movements you make when you are upset about something and they may use this to their advantage by doing further questioning about that point in trying to have you waver with your story. Keep your hands folded in your lap and keep your eyes focused on the person speaking. Try your best to keep a blank expression if the speaker is bringing up something unfavorable to your case.
Act Respectful
The best way to make a favorable impression is to treat everyone involved in the courtroom with respect. Do not interrupt anyone speaking, even if it is someone speaking against you. You can shake your head in disagreement, but refrain from dramatic outbursts or sighing loudly to gain attention. Continue being respectful during breaks, as the same people will be observing your actions. Open doors for people, thank them when necessary and keep a calm demeanor.
Speak To Be Heard
When it is your turn to speak, talk loud enough for everyone in the courtroom to hear you. Articulate your words so the court reporter, lawyers and jury will be able to understand what you are saying. If you have difficulty hearing something said to you, politely ask the person to repeat it rather than trying to answer a question you did not understand clearly.
If someone asks you a question, answer it truthfully. If a lawyer is asking a question where the answer will most likely hurt your case, answer it with a short answer without extra explanation. There is no need to elaborate on the answers you give unless you feel they will help your case. Take a few seconds to think through your answers instead of blurting something out you will regret later. Contact Binsky Whittle lawyer for more information about winning your case.
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