How should I act in court?
  1. The proceeding shall at all times be conducted in a dignified and formal manner. Courtesy shall be exhibited by everyone to everyone in the courtroom. At all times, communication in the presence of clients and witnesses shall be conducted with respect and courtesy.
  2. When addressing the court, counsel is reminded as follows:
    1. Ask permission to address the court by prefacing remarks with the phrase "May it please the court."
    2. Stand when addressing the court. It is recognized that some judges may have different policies on this issue. To be certain, check with the court's tip staff, law clerk or secretary to ascertain the particular judge's policy.
    3. At the beginning or each proceeding, the moving party's counsel should identify themselves and opposing counsel, identify the proceeding and state whom they represent.
    4. Lawyers should directly address the court and witnesses.
    5. Extraneous comments are to be discussed outside the presence of the court and the jury.
    6. Lawyers are expected to stand when addressing and conducting voir dire of a jury.
    7. If making objections, stand and state a brief reason for the objection. If it is necessary to expand the record after an objection during a jury trial, lawyers should request they be permitted to approach the bench and quietly, out of the hearing of the jury, state their reasons. No argument should be presented in front of the jury. Request permission to approach the bench before doing so. While at side bar, lawyers must stand in a dignified manner, recognizing they are in view of other participants in the proceeding. Lawyers must make certain their voices are heard and assure that witnesses can also be heard.

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1. What is a Divorce Hearing Officer?
2. How should I dress in court?
3. How should I act in court?
4. Do I need an attorney?
5. What if I don't have an attorney?
6. What if I can't afford an attorney?
7. How can I check on the status of my case?
8. If I have something I want to tell a judge or a divorce hearing officer, should I call them or write them a letter?