Going to Court

1. Know Your Goal

Before you set foot in the courtroom, you should be clear in your mind what you are aiming for. This should include whether you are pleading guilty or not guilty to the charges that are being laid, your explanation of the facts, and any extenuating circumstances that may help those judging you to look on your circumstances fairly. For example, you may wish to present yourself as being affected by a mental or physical illness, including addiction, in which case, it is a good idea to have your evidence figured out and any witnesses or advocates prepared.

2. Get Legal Advice and Representation

Lawyers are nototiously expensive, but you owe it to yourself to get good legal representation. If you are financially limited, you may be able to access an attorney without cost. You may be able to access "pro bono" or free legal services. You may be able to get legal advice from law students at your local university. Don't just write off the idea of legal representation or advice as being too costly or difficult -- ask for information at your local library or community center, and use what is available to you.

3. Appearances Count

People judge by appearances. The more you appear to be "playing the game" by dressing appropriately, and appearing clean and tidy, the more credible you will appear. This does not mean you have to dress in a suit, but even if you are homeless, you can probably access clean clothing to attend court from a shelter, charity, thrift store or drop-in center. Although you may think that an unkempt appearance will elicit sympathy from the court, it is more likely to make them think that you do not respect yourself, other people, or society. Overly provocative clothing, such as halter tops, mini skirts, ripped denim, leather and studs all send the message that you are a rebel, which will have an unfavorable effect.

4. Act Mature

Even if you are not or do not feel mature, this is one time to behave like a grown-up, rather than a rebellious teenager. Doing things like chewing gum, using your cellphone or MP3 player, smoking, and even eating or drinking in the courtroom show a lack of self-control, and a lack of awareness of the seriousness of the situation.

5. Make Childcare Arrangements

Do not bring your children to court. Make arrangements for someone else to look after them. If you do not have friends or family to look after them, ask a social worker to help you make the necessary arrangements.

6. Show Up and Be On Time

Not only does it make a bad impression, indicating that you are disorganized, irresponsible or avoiding the consequences of your actions, you lose control of being able to influence the outcome of the court case in any way if you are late or miss your court date. Do what you need to do to get there on time.

7. Show Respect for the Judge and the Courtroom

Stand when the judge enters the courtroom, and when speaking to the judge. You will be told when to stand and when to sit. When in doubt, stand. Always call the judge "Your Honor." Do not speak on your way in or out of the courtroom, or outside the door.

8. Speak When the Judge Addresses You

Speak directly to the judge, not to the other side, unless instructed to do so. Never get into a discussion or an argument with the other side. Look people in the eye, and speak loudly and clearly enough to be heard. Answer questions in words, not by nodding or shaking your head. Be direct and to-the-point in your answers.

9. Control Your Feelings

The chances are, your emotions will be running high. You will probably feel angry, scared and upset about being in court, regardless of the rights and wrongs of the case. It is crucially important to control your feelings as much as possible. Emotional outbursts do not tend to elicit sympathy, and can work against you.

10. Be Prepared for Your Case to be "Taken Under Advisement"

The judge may need time to think about your case and the court will mail his or her decision to you once it is made. Be sure that the court has your current mailing address.