Every single courtroom has its own collection of guidelines, requirements and policies that people website need to follow; listed below are some examples.
Regardless of what kind of trial is going on, the court will always be a serious, distinguished and reputable setting, as displayed by the Malta judiciary system for example. The prestige of the courtroom means that there is a particular etiquette that is expected of everyone who is present in the room. It might come as a surprise, but this even applies to lawyer or attorneys also. For instance, the expected court etiquette for lawyers is decorum at all times. Lawyers must maintain professionalism, follow the fundamental values of the courtroom and treat all court workers with respect, especially the judge in particular. This means always addressing the judge as "your honour", standing up when the judge addresses you and seeking approval before approaching the bench or talking privately with a client. Even if the judge does something that you disagree with, it is your role as a lawyer to stay cool, calm and collected. Being composed is absolutely fundamental; any type of noticeable or obvious signs of anger or frustration will not only look unprofessional, but it could possibly also impede the entire court proceedings.
The responsibility of the judge, jury and court holds a lot of weight in society, as shown by the Austria judiciary system for instance. Due to its importance, it is important for people to do their research to make sure that they know all the set guidelines, policies and rules of a courtroom beforehand. Everybody who steps foot inside a courtroom should adhere to these standards, whether they are an attorney, observer, witness or jury member. If you have jury duty coming up and you are uncertain on how to behave in court as a juror, the number one rule is to pay attention. Although court proceedings can last a long period of time and there will be a lot of information to digest, it is very important for jury members to stay focused throughout. As a juror, it is your responsibility to listen attentively to the evidence and statements offered, making notes if permitted and not getting distracted by anything else. Another golden rule is to not talk about any of your thoughts, feelings and opinions whilst the trial is underway, as the time for conversations is during the deliberations.
Every court is a respectable and notable place to be in, as displayed by the Slovenia judiciary system for example. If you are a viewer in court for the very first time, it is normal to be uncertain on what to do in a courtroom. In reality, a lot of the courtroom etiquette for spectators boils down to simple common sense. For example, it is essential for viewers to turn up to court in appropriate clothes. Some courts have more stringent dress codes than others, but the general consensus is that the dress code is smart, professional and modest. Unsurprisingly, viewers should also shut off their mobile phones or put them on aeroplane mode, along with any other technological gadgets which could make a noise or be used to record.