After you have made bail you will be assigned a court date where you will have to appear before the judge and he or she will determine your punishment for the crime. However there is some basic etiquette you should follow that may help the judge determine a softer punishment if properly followed. Attitude and behavior will help define your good nature and character that can often sway a judge for a lighter sentence. Ajua Bail Bonds will share some important courtroom etiquette that will help aid you as you go before the judge on your scheduled court date.
How Do You Greet a Courtroom?
A good beginning to court room etiquette is not to be running late. Plan on arriving at least 30 minutes early. This will provide you time to consult with your attorney and get some answers to the many questions you will probably have. This will also help familiarize you with your surrounding and make you feel more comfortable. Come with a respectable appearance and be properly groomed. Come accompanied by only those who are necessary for the outcome of your sentence. Don’t enter the courtroom with a gang of friends. This is unnecessary and may raise suspicion by the court. Most of the time the courtroom will be locked. Wait respectfully outside until the bailiff comes and escorts you into the court room.
How Do You Present Yourself to a Judge?
As stated before, come well dressed and with good hygiene ethics. Be respectful and compliant before the judge. Often the sentence is determined by the defendant’s appearance and attitude. Of course the crime and reason for the arrest must also be taken into account. However keep in mind you can’t take back a first impression. You will want the judge to have a positive one. Maintain a good posture and speak clearly when spoken to. Do not slouch or appear bored during the hearing.
Do’s & Don’ts of Court Etiquette
Often the prosecutor will try to make small talk before or during a break. Don’t speak to them if they ask you any questions. With a respectful smile tell them they will have to talk to your attorney. Most likely they are just trying to probe you and find a better angle to get you a heavier sentence. A prosecutor is never your friend. Still, speak to them respectfully and courteously. In the courtroom is the time to assume your very best attitude and keep it throughout the hearing. There may be eyewitnesses that will come and speak against you. Do not let your emotions get the better of you. Maintain a respectful and calm demeanor. As your hearing comes to a close, you are sure to have many questions. Wait until you’re out of the courtroom before asking your attorney, family or friends these questions. Keep all aspects of your hearing confidential. You don’t want other people knowing or hearing details about your case.
Bail Bond Services in Clovis, Reedley, Sanger, Selma, Atwater, Los Banos, Merced, Visalia, Porterville, Tulare, Hanford, Corcoran, Lemoore & Greater Fresno, CA
Proper etiquette will buy you a lot of leeway during your hearing. Follow these simple etiquette rules and you might find your hearing might be less stressful and easier then you thought. Ajua Bail Bonds wants to help all of our clients face their court date with ease and confidence. If you or a loved one has been arrested, contact Ajua Bail Bonds. We can help you spend less time in jail and more time with your loved ones.
