Courtroom Conduct & Etiquette

No Food, Beverages, Cell Phones, Pagers, or Pets

Never bring anything to eat or drink into the courtroom. The only animals allowed in the courtroom are those which assist people who are physically challenged. You must turn off any device that could disturb court proceedings.

No Weapons

Never bring a gun, knife, or other weapons into the courthouse. You may be searched before entering the courtroom and courthouse. If you are appearing in connecting with a domestic violence charge or anti-harassment proceeding, you can expect to be searched.

No Children

Please do not bring children to court. You may be asked to leave the courtroom if a child is disrupting court. There are no child care facilities within the courthouse. If you have no choice but to bring a child or children, then bring another adult to watch the child while you are in the courtroom. The proceedings are audio-taped, and any extraneous noise can disrupt the recording.

Be Respectful

You must be quiet in the courtroom when observing. Never use profanity. Always be polite when speaking. Speak clearly and loudly enough for the recording to pick up what you are saying. All persons shall refrain from any gestures and from conduct or behavior which manifest disrespect for the:

  • Counsel
  • Court
  • Court staff
  • Law enforcement personnel
  • Litigants
  • Witnesses

Dress code

The following dress code shall apply when the court is in session:

  • All persons in the courtroom, except those required to be there because of arrest or court order, shall be attired in a manner appropriate to the dignity and decorum of the courtroom setting.
  • Men shall wear shirts, trousers, and shoes. Women shall wear shoes, and either dresses, skirts and tops, or pants and tops.
  • Shorts, bathing suits, halter tops, tank tops, sweats, hats, caps, torn clothing, dirty clothing, or other clothing with obscene or profane pictures or messages shall not be worn.
  • If you are not appropriately attired, you may have to return on another date to have your matter heard.