Court Do’s & Don’ts

COURT DO'S

• Bring copies received from and sent to court.

• Bring pens and paper to take notes.

• Arrive early, approximately an hour before.

• Dress smartly.

• Expect and engage with any lawyer from the other side to see if an agreement can be reached.

• Speak respectfully to the magistrate/judge, usher and all security and staff at court.

• Stay calm and engage politely with the court.

• You may wish to carry some food with you should there be any delay to your hearing.

COURT DON'Ts

• Do not shout or raise your voice, even if you feel frustrated. 

• Do not interrupt or speak over the magistrate/judge or the other side. 

• Do not use your phone during the hearing to make calls or to record the hearing.

• Do not walk out of hearings.