Court Conduct

Please follow these basic rules of court conduct when appearing in any court in Stephens County.

When Appearing In Court

  • Be on time.
  • Throw away any food or drinks before entering the courtroom.
  • Stand when the Judge enters and leaves the courtroom.
  • Stand when you are speaking to the Judge.
  • Speak clearly when you respond to the Judge’s questions.
  • Always address the Judge as “Your Honor.”
  • Never interrupt the Judge or other court personnel. If you are unsure of what you heard, wait until the Judge or other personnel has finished speaking before asking a question.
  • Enter and leave the courtroom quietly.
  • Only approach the bench if instructed to do so.
  • Turn off all electronic devices (this excludes hearing aids, or any item used for impairment)

Respect

The courtroom is a place of order and structure. You should at all times act in a respectful manner when in the presence of the Judge, court staff, District Attorney, Solicitor, attorneys, probation officers, court officers and other persons attending court. Once the court has made a ruling in your case, continue to be respectful as you exit the courtroom. Disrupting the court before or after the Judge has made a ruling may result in contempt of court charges, fines, and possibly jail time.

Dressing for Court

If you are appearing in court you should dress nicely and in a manner that shows respect for the court. Below are examples of things that you should not wear in court:

  • Sunglasses
  • Any clothing depicting violence, sexual acts, profanity, or illegal drugs
  • Tube or halter tops/plunging necklines/midriffs
  • Ripped or torn jeans
  • Mini skirts or short shorts
  • Baggy pants that fall below the waist
  • Muscle shirts
  • Remove head coverings (caps, hats, etc., exceptions made for religious head coverings).

If you are not dressed properly, you may be asked to leave the courtroom and return at a later time or date.

Security Precautions and Prohibited Items

Before entering the court you will go through a security checkpoint. You will be asked to place all items from your pockets, as well as any other items with you, on the x-ray machine conveyor. This may include belts, jewelry, or any other item being brought into the Court. You will be asked to walk through a metal detector and/or an officer will use a wand to check for prohibited items. The officer will search any bags, packages, or personal belongings that will be taken into the courtroom. If you refuse to cooperate, you may be denied entry to your hearing.

Items that should not enter the Courthouse:

  • Weapons of any kind
  • Cell phones and electronic equipment are allowed, but must be turned off (unless allowed on by the Court)
  • Food and beverages
  • No large items

Children in the Courtroom

Many topics discussed in the courtroom are not appropriate for children and may be hurtful or confusing. While children are not prohibited from the courtroom any distractions they cause may result in you being directed to remove the child from the courtroom.