WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GOING TO COURT
14th July 2020
What you need to know about going to court
Going to court can be intimidating. For most, the court is an unknown world asociated with doing wrong or bad things. The language and procedures are alien to us and difficult to understand. The unknown naturally leaves us feeling uncomfortable and anxious.
Hopefully the tips below may eleviate some of your worries and anxieties.
- Take it seriously. Sounds obvious, but surprisingly it often has to be said.
2. Be prepared. Make sure you are familiar with your documemtation that you have filed with the court. This will help you answer any questions asked of you with confidence.
3. Be on time. Arrive early. Allow for parking, going through security, and finding your way to any meeting point within the court.
4. Be aware of security requirements. Avoid wearing metal items that may not pass through security easily.
5. Make a good first impression. If you want to be effective and credible in court you must look the part. While not ideal people still make snap judgements... even Judges!
6. Dress smartly and appropriately and in something you feel comfortable. No loud colours, or sports wear, or work wear. Dress like you are going to an important job interview. Don't chew gum in the court room.
7. Dress for success. Men don't have to wear a suit, but do wear smart trousers and a clean, smart top. Jeans are not advisable unless they are smart and clean... and avoid T-Shirts.
8. Be clean and well groomed. Make sure your hair is clean and neat.
9. Talk to your lawyer about the hearing beforehand. Ask them to explain what you can expect and where you should meet them within the court building.
10. Be aware of your posture and body language. Stand and/or sit up straight at all times. Look directly at the person talking to you and when you are giving evidence always look at the Judge when you are speaking. This will help you appear credible and sincere.
11. Allow your lawyer to do their job. Only speak when you are spoken to. Speak clearly when you are asked to speak. If you need to speak to your lawyer in the hearing then either whisper or write a note.
12. Your demeanour and body language is very important. People especially the Judge will be observing you all the time. Keep your emotions in check. Don't express anger or surprise. Never shout or argue, swear or insult. Do not make faces or roll your eyes or emit sounds when others are speaking and you disagree. Try to be neutral. Sadness, feeling hurt or stressed are natural but try not to let thse become extreme.
13. Be respectful. Refer to the Judge when you are addressing them as Sir or Ma'am. Do not speak to the Judge unless asked to do so. Never argue with the Judge or interupt them. You do not want to alienate the Judge or risk your credibility being effected.
14. Turn off mobile phones and other devices.
15. Do not bring children to the court unless you have been specifically told to do so. Make sure they are clean and well presented if so.
16. Friends and family. Whilst is is good to have the support of loved ones, it is best to come to court alone. If you do bring someone for moral support, limit it to 1 or 2 people and be aware they will not be able to go into the Judges chamber for the hearing.
You will be judged on your appearance and behaviour in court. It is down to you to present yourself in a confident, credible, and genuine way. This will give you the best chance of achieving the outcome you want for your case. Failure to create this impression means you are fighting an uphill battle from the outset.
Always plan and prepare in advance. Ask your lawyer any questions regardless of how silly you think they mind sound. Chances are they are not silly questions, but good ones that will help you achieve your goals in court.
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