Checklist for Preparing for Your Court Date

Dress neatly and respectfully.
Take all of the documents that will be needed to show to the judge.
Be on time. Allow extra time for traffic or other possible delays. (If you are delayed or unable to attend the hearing due to a car breakdown, sudden illness, or other emergency, contact the department clerk on or before your hearing time.)
Turn off your cell phone and/or pager when you enter the courtroom.
When your case is called, walk to the table or podium in front of the judge and stand facing the judge.
Be prepared to state your name and your relationship to the case.
Speak clearly and loud enough that the judge can hear you. Speak only when it is your turn.
When you speak to the judge, act respectfully and call him or her “your honor.” Be sure never to interrupt the judge.
Answer all of the judge’s questions and stop talking immediately if the judge interrupts you.
If you don’t understand something, say that you don’t understand. Someone will try to explain it for you.

<BACK TO YOU AND THE COURT

Did this information help you? Tell us what you think.