Last updated: June 2004

Introduction

Hello. My name is Tammie Grossman. I'm the Executive Director of the Statewide Housing Action Coalition, and I'm going to give you some tips about going to court today.

When to Arrive

Make sure to arrive at court at least 15 minutes early so that you can locate your courtroom in time.

How to Dress

Try to dress in business causal attire. If possible, do not wear t-shirts with sayings or logos, cut off jeans or shorts, low cut shirts or short skirts.

No Phones/Pagers in Court

Do not bring any telephones, pagers or other electronic devices into the courtroom. If you must bring them in, make sure that they are turned off to avoid having the court take them away from you.

No Children in Court

If possible, do not bring your children to court with you. If you must bring them either bring a responsible person to watch them outside of the courtroom. Or, check to see if your court house has a children's waiting room.

When Your Case is Called

When your case is called approach the bench and introduce yourself. Speak clearly and in a respectful manner.

Don't Interrupt the Judge

Never interrupt the judge or other parties. The only exception would be to make an objection to either a testimony or question. Then simply state "objection" and then the reason for your objection.

Objections

If an objection is made during the presentation of your case, wait for the judge to rule on the objection before proceeding.

Be Organized

Make sure that you have all the documents that you intend to use in your case with you and easily accessible. You will need to know what information you will need to present in order to have them admitted into evidence.

Tell Your Story

When it is your turn to present your case do not assume that the judge has any knowledge of the facts of your case, unless the judge tells you that certain information is not necessary.

Tell Your Story in Order

Whenever possible present your case in chronological order.

Don't Argue with a Witness

Never argue with the other party or any witness. If a witness will not testify the way you want them to you will have to think of another way to present that evidence.

Cross-Examining

When you cross examine a witness ask questions of the witness. Do not make general statements to the judge.

Let the Witness Answer

Wait for the witness to answer the question before asking another question. If you are unsure how your witness will answer the question you may not want to ask it.

Tell the Judge What you Want

At the conclusion of the trial each side will get the opportunity to ask the judge to rule in a specific way. Make sure you tell the judge exactly what you want them to do.

Drafting an Order

If the judge tells you to draft an order make sure you know exactly what the judge wants the order to state. If you are unsure how to draft an order ask the judge to ask either a lawyer or clerk in the courtroom to assist you.

The Order Must be Signed

Never leave the courtroom without a copy of the signed order in your case.