Regardless of whether your legal issue is of a criminal nature such as theft, drug possession, or a violent crime, or a simple divorce and custody hearing, you need to be prepared. Long before your court date you should have already retained an attorney to represent you. Along with your attorneys’ guidance, the following tips will help you prepare for your day in court.

Get Organized:

Don’t wait until the last minute to gather and organize the documents and information that your lawyer has instructed you to bring to court, or provide in advance.

• Create a folder for all of the documents that are relevant to your case.
• Bring original documents to court. Be sure to have copies available for distribution to the court.

• Obtain certified copies of government documents in advance.
• Compile a list of detailed notes that includes important dates, names, and addresses that may be relative to your case.

Be on Time:

• Arrive at the courthouse at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled court time.
• Allow extra time for traffic and security checks.

Courtroom Etiquette:

• Turn off you cell phone before you enter the courtroom.
• Discard your chewing gum.
• Remove your hat.

Interaction with the Judge:

• Always show respect to the Judge.
• Speak loud and clear so the Judge will hear and understand you.
• Never interrupt the Judge.
• Let the Judge complete his question in its entirety before you provide your answer.

Taking the Stand in Court:

• Be prepared to state your name when called to the stand.
• Next you will be instructed to raise your right hand and swear to tell the truth.
• Your response must be spoken aloud. Simply nodding your head is not an acceptable response.
• When responding to a question, either lawyer may state “objection”. At this point you should stop talking all together until you receive further instruction from the Judge.
• If you are not clear about any questions, simply say “I do not understand, can you repeat the question?”

Let me help you prepare for your day in court. Give me a call at (561)-454-9727 or stop by our offices in Broward County at 205 West Davie Blvd Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316. For legal service in Palm Beach County stop by our Boynton Beach office at 8328 Waterline Dr. #106, Boynton Beach, Florida 33472.

DISCLAIMER

The blog articles found here are not intended to be legal advice. Your specific case or legal issue should be reviewed by a Lawyer. Contact Ray Ledezma to discuss your case at (561)-454-9727 or send an email to RenierLedezma@yahoo.com.