Doyle Golde Grossman - Family Law Site

You may not have experience with courtroom decorum. Fear not.  The following is a list of tips to help you avoid common faux pas. Remember that the courtroom is a formal environment:

• Take care of yourself

Get a good night’s sleep and eat a full breakfast.

• Dress appropriately (Read conservatively)

Slacks and a collared shirt are standard fare. Women, cover up. You can wear whatever you want as soon as the hearing is over.

• Find a sitter

Do not bring your children to court unless you have been specifically requested to do so by the Judge or your attorney. Children can be a distraction and most of the subject matter covered in hearings is not appropriate for them.

• Leave the new beau at home

The presence of a new partner or spouse in court during divorce or custody matters will only exacerbate an already acrimonious situation. Bring a well-behaved friend to the hearing if you need emotional support.

• Be punctual

Allow yourself enough time to park, pass through security. Arrive outside your courtroom at least fifteen minutes before your hearing to cover any last minute details with your attorney.

• Turn off your phone

A ringing cell will aggravate the judge. Don’t be “that guy”.

• Display deference

Enter and exit quietly. Stand when the judge enters or exits. If you are called to address the Judge, use the title, “Your Honor.”

• Remain silent.

Do not speak to the Juge unless you are offering testimony. Your attorney is your mouthpiece. Do not communicate verbally with your attorney. Have a pad of paper ready to jot down necessary communications with counsel.

• Keep a poker face

Do not scowl or gape. Do not shake your head or make guttural noises. Maintain neutral body language no matter how you feel.

• Pay attention

Terence Daniel Doyle, Esq. is the founder of the Family Law Group, Danville, California. Our vision brings together a team of highly experienced and distinguished family law attorneys all of whom deliver specialized knowledge, strategic insight and tactical planning.  Since 1984, we have dedicated ourselves to this mission.  We are very proud of our five attorneys and our talented support team which includes California State Bar Certified Family Law Specialists, brilliant staff attorneys, and committed and experienced Certified Paralegals and family law technical staff. At Doyle Golde Grossman, we practice our profession with integrity, strength and commitment to our clients.

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