How to Address a Judge
The hallowed halls of the courtroom can intimidate even the most experienced lawyers and give them the jitters. The judge, who oversees everything in court proceedings to ensure that justice and fairness reigns over all, should be addressed with the respect accorded to him or her because of his or her position, and what that position represents in society. Here are some tips to help you address a judge properly and respectfully.
Court Decorum
Some people perceive the behavior and atmosphere in the courtroom to be even more formal and strict than ceremonies or formal dinners. The reason behind the rather “uppity” behavior in the courtroom is decorum; everyone from the judge to the stenographer, from the jury, the counsel, and everyone in the gallery must observe proper behavior in a place where justice is administered. While emotions can run high in the courtroom especially for cases of a personal nature, people should still behave in a formal manner expected in a place so highly regarded in society:
People must dress formally as prescribed by societal norms.
Everyone in the gallery must address each other with respect.
Unless the bailiff, judge, or counsel instructs someone to talk under oath, everyone in the gallery should remain quiet during court proceedings.
Addressing the Judge
The judge tries the case and administers the verdicts and judgments as prescribed by the law, but he or she also represents the ideals and ideas of justice that society believes in. He or she should be addressed in the proper manner:
When addressing the judge in court, the proper means of address is “Your Honor.” Do not address the judge on a personal, first-name basis. Remember that you are not only addressing the judge as a person held in high regard, but you are also addressing the office and position he or she represents.
addressing the judge
Do not address the judge sitting down. Stand up when talking to the judge, and ask for permission to speak. Do not, under any circumstances, interrupt the judge while he or she is talking, delivering a verdict, or is constructing an argument.
Approach the bench when you are called by the judge.
Never argue with or raise your voice to the judge. Decisions in a court are rendered final, and you may need to speak with the clerks of court or your lawyer afterward if you do not agree with the verdict. They may recommend taking your case to an appeals court or to a higher court.
Contempt is any act of disrespect not only to the judge, but to anyone in the court in the attempt to derail or disrupt proceedings. Contempt carries stiff penalties, so remember to be at your best behavior and put your best foot forward.
Proper behavior and etiquette is expected of everyone in the courtroom, and most especially to the judge. With these steps, you can give the same respect and regard to a judge in the same way you do the law.