How to Behave in Court

The way you appear and behave in the courtroom can affect how others see you. The opinion of some of these others, such as the judge and jury, will be crucial.

Criminal Courtroom Layout

Just about everything that happens in a courtroom can seem confusing to someone who hasn’t experienced the justice system firsthand. Even the courtroom itself can be confounding.

Should criminal defendants speak in court?

In court, lawyers speak on behalf of their clients. Criminal defendants may, however, speak for themselves in a few situations, such as when:

How do I know where to go once I get to court?

State courts devoted to criminal cases can resemble train stations during rush hour: crowded, confusing, and noisy.

What do judges actually do?

The judge, the man or woman seated at the bench wearing a black gown (called a robe), typically does some or all of the following:

What do courtroom clerks do?

Courtroom clerks are court officials who work for particular judges. Courtroom clerks have many duties.

What do bailiffs do?

Sometimes police officers sit in the spectator section of the courtroom (the gallery), waiting to testify.

What do court reporters do?

Court reporters: record every word that is said during the proceeding. At trial, upon request of the judge, the reporter will read back testimony of a witness or a statement of counsel. prepare transcripts—written booklets containing what was said at a particular court session—often for a fee, upon

What happens at the criminal clerk's office?

The clerk’s office is the courthouse’s central nervous system.

Can I use the courthouse law library?

Though most legal research is conducted online these days, many courthouses have law libraries that are open to the public. Attorneys and some criminal defendants, especially those who represent themselves, find courthouse law libraries convenient when they need answers to questions that have been raised

Where are in-custody defendants kept before court?

Courthouses in which criminal matters are handled also have jails. Visitors won’t usually see them, because they are typically located behind courtrooms, in basements, or on a separate floor.

Is a court reporter always present during a criminal case?

Court reporters are usually present during criminal proceedings.

Do courts provide interpreters for non-English speakers?

At all critical stages of a case, a judge will appoint an interpreter to translate for defendants (and often victims as well) who have substantial difficulty speaking and understanding English.

Who might show up in court to watch a criminal case?

Court staff aside, the people who are present in the courtroom may vary depending on the stage of your case.