CHAPTER 4: Emond Montgomery Publications 1 Courtroom Etiquette

Arriving at Court What Do I Wear? Dress to demonstrate respect for the court or tribunal Men: suit and tie Women: suit or dress pants/skirt with a jacket/sweater What Time Should I Arrive at the Court or Tribunal? Plan to arrive approximately 15 minutes before the time set for the trial or hearing Emond Montgomery Publications 2

Seating Where Do I Sit? Arrive early enough to ask court officers Generally, in the gallery until your case is called Plaintiff, prosecutor, or applicant generally sits on the right side of the room, facing the bench Where Does My Client Sit? Your client will sit beside you at the counsel table Where Do My Witnesses Sit? In the body of the court When called, they proceed to the witness box; afterward, they return to the body of the court Emond Montgomery Publications 3

How Do I Address…? The Judge, Justice of the Peace, or Adjudicator: Always stand before speaking Small Claims Court: “Your Honour” Provincial Offences Court: “Your Worship” Tribunal: “Mr. or Madam Adjudicator/Member,” by last name The Lawyer or Agent for the Other Side: “my friend,” “counsel/agent for the plaintiff/defendant,” by last name A Party to the Case: by legal status in the matter (plaintiff/defendant, applicant/respondent) by status in the case (the landlord or the tenant) by last name A Witness: by last name Emond Montgomery Publications 4

How Do I Speak to...? The Other Side’s Agent or Lawyer During the Trial: Do not speak directly to the opposing side’s agent or lawyer while the case is going on Speak through the judge, justice of the peace, or adjudicator Always use a respectful and civil tone My Client During the Trial or Hearing: Ask permission from the judge, justice of the peace, or adjudicator Emond Montgomery Publications 5

Important! Bathroom breaks: wait until a recess is called or request one Turn off cellphones, pagers, etc. Do not use cameras, video recorders, etc. Do not eat, drink, chew gum, or read newspapers in the courtroom Remove sunglasses and hats (except religious coverings) Stand when the judge or JP enters/leaves the courtroom Do not make noise or enter/leave while the judge or JP is speaking If you arrive/leave while court is in session, bow slightly to the judge/JP Do not drink water while speaking to the judge, JP, or adjudicator Emond Montgomery Publications 6