How Should I Act in Court?

  • Be on time.
  • Dress neatly.
  • Don't go in alone. Make sure there is an adult with you.
  • Show respect to the people who are there.
  • Don't eat or drink in court.
  • Don't chew gum.
  • You need to be quiet in court, so keep all electronic devices turned off. This includes digital music players, cell phones, and other portable devices.
  • There may be other cases before yours. You have to be quiet and wait.
  • You can read a book or play quietly with this book while you wait.
  • When your case starts, call the judge "Your Honor." This is what people call the judge to show respect.
  • Don't speak unless the judge or a lawyer asks you to.
  • If you don't understand something, say that you don't understand. Someone will explain it again for you.
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