If you have come in contact with COVID-19, you will be required to send in documentation.
If you have been ordered to appear in court, this page will provide important information that will assist you before your appearance. This information does not constitute legal advice. If you require legal assistance, please consult an attorney.
Appearing in Court
- Be on time.
- No food or drinks allowed in Courtroom.
- Stand when the judge enters and leaves the room.
- Stand when you are speaking to the judge.
- Speak clearly when you respond to the judges questions.
- Always address the judge as “Your Honor”.
- Never interrupt the judge. If you are unsure of what you heard, wait until the judge or other person speaking at your hearing has finished talking before asking a question.
- Enter and leave the courtroom quietly, so you do not disturb others.
- Only approach the bench when instructed to do so.
Dressing for Court
If you are appearing in court you should dress nicely and in a manner that shows respect for the court.
Here are some things you should NOT wear:
- Hats inside the courtroom (except those worn for religious purposes)
- Sunglasses
- T-shirts depicting violence, sexual acts, profanity, or illegal drugs
- Tube or halter tops / plunging necklines / midriffs
- Ripped or torn jeans
- Mini skirts or shorts
- Baggy pants that fall below the waist
- Muscle shirts (usually worn as undergarments)
If you are not dressed properly, you will be asked to leave the court and return at a later date. This will delay your hearing and require you to appear in court more than once.
Prohibited Items
Items that should NOT enter the courthouse:
- Weapons of any kind
- Electronic equipment such as video, voice recorders or camera (unless approved by the court)
- Food, beverages, chewing gum and tobacco
Children in the Courtroom
Please do not bring children to court unless the court has ordered them to be present. Many topics discussed in the courtroom are not appropriate for children and may be hurtful or confusing. Please arrange for a friend or relative to watch your child(ren) while you are in court.
Cell Phones and Pagers
The use of cell phones are not allowed in the courtroom. Your cell phone or pager must be turned off before entering so that you do not disrupt the court. If you are required to carry a phone or pager for business purposes, it must be placed on silent mode.
Security Precautions
Before entering the court you may go through a security checkpoint. In most cases, you will be asked to walk through a metal detector or an officer will use a wand to check for prohibited items. You should allow the officer to 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.