How to Address the Judge in a Court of Law

When you go to court for the very first time, that big bench with the unsmiling man or woman behind it can be rather intimidating. You’ve seen every episode of Law & Order ever produced, but how do you address the judge in real life? Should you call him ‘sir’? Should you smile or keep your head down? Read on to learn how to properly address the judge in a court of law.

Verbal Addressing

When you speak to the judge in a court of law, you don’t really have to call him anything. In most cases, it is proper to call him ‘Your Honor’, but you don’t have to if you’re not comfortable. Since most people who go to court shouldn’t speak until they are asked a question, you might never have the opportunity to verbally address him or her as anything at all. You can also ask the court clerk how this particular judge prefers to be addressed.

Approaching the Courtroom

The clerk or the bailiff will call your case when it’s time for the judge to hear it. You’ll be directed to one of two tables, depending on what type of case it is, and you should stand quietly until the judge actually speaks to you. There is no reason to ask questions or make comments during this time, so make sure you’re as polite as possible After all, you don’t want to address the judge incorrectly and ruin your chances of winning your case.

Speaking Mannerisms

When you decide to address the judge in court, you should be standing behind the table, never sitting. Keep your arms dangling beside your body and resist the urge to talk with your hands; likewise, try not to shuffle your feet or dance nervously in place. The judge will be watching you for signs of unease, which is never a good thing if you’re the defendant. Furthermore, make sure you always look him or her in the eyes – it’s only polite.

The Judge Speaks

All of that is well and good when you need to address a judge in court, but don’t forget how to behave when the judge is talking. Magistrates don’t like to be interrupted, and might very well kick you out if you open your mouth while he or she is talking. Likewise, don’t try to argue with his or her decision – it won’t go well, and you’ll only serve to sink your case farther into the mud. Instead, wait until after court to learn how to contest a judge’s ruling.

Get Permission

If you are in the middle of a court proceeding and have something pressing to say, it is best to address the judge directly and ask if you can speak. This is the best way to earn his or her respect, and shows you understand the court system and how you should behave. Never speak out of turn or when you haven’t been asked a question.

Oral No-Nos

Never come to court with chewing gum, candies, lozenges or anything else in your mouth if you can avoid it. You don’t want to address the judge with a mouthful of candy, nor do you want to appear rude, so spit it out before you walk into the courtroom. If you don’t, you might very well be asked to dispose of it, which would be embarrassing to say the least.