Rules of Attire & Conduct

The following information is for attorneys, witnesses, and all parties.

Rules of Attire

All persons present in the courtroom shall be clean, neat, and dressed in a manner that shows dignity and respect for the court. You may be asked to leave and return in appropriate attire.

Unacceptable attire includes:

• Shorts, cut-offs, baggy pants, do-rags, or hats
• Muscle shirts; T-shirts; clothing indicating gang affiliation; and clothing with offensive, vulgar, racist, sexist, obscene, or suggestive slogans, depictions, or pictures, including grotesque creatures
• Shirts that are torn, dirty, and ragged
• Provocative clothing designed, styled, or worn to provoke emotion, disruption, or distraction

Rules of Conduct

Conduct in the courtroom also includes conduct in the reception areas, hallways, jury room, and any office spaces assigned to the court. You are subject to search.

• Other than law enforcement personnel, weapons are prohibited in the courtroom and the court building.
• Be on time. Your arrival time affects how soon your case will be called.
• Do not argue with the judge. Address the judge as "judge" or "your honor."
• Address opposing parties, counsel, witnesses, and court officers as mister, mistress, miss, doctor, or similar appropriate title. Do not use first names, except with children under 14 years of age.
• Do not bring drinks or food into the courtroom.
• Do not interrupt. Do not talk at the same time as the judge, opposing counsel, or witness.
• Cell phones and pagers are not allowed in the courtroom.
• Do not engage in conversation with other parties during the court hearing unless it is with your legal counsel or directed by the judge.
• Do not leave the courtroom without the permission of the judge or bailiff.