Here’s What You Should Know When You’re Getting Ready To Go to Court
People go to court for many reasons, and not everyone knows what to expect. The uncertainty can feel overwhelming.
One of the best ways to calm your pre-court anxiety is to prepare properly and to speak with your lawyer. Here are some tips on preparing for your first court proceeding from the legal team at White & Associates.
Get Ready in the Days and Weeks Before Your Court Date
There’s a saying among lawyers that you can’t over-prepare for court. If you feel nervous about your upcoming court date, the best way to fight those nerves may be to prepare.
Start With Logistics
- Take the time off from work and make childcare arrangements for your court date.
- Make sure you have appropriate clothing (read more on that below).
- Request any accommodations, like an interpreter, wheelchair access or other ADA accommodations.
Get a Sense of What Your Proceeding Will Be Like
- If your proceeding is in person, make sure you know where the courthouse is.
- If you’ll have a virtual proceeding, ensure you’ll have a quiet setting and reliable Wi-Fi. Tell your lawyer if a virtual hearing will be a problem.
- If you’re not sure how this proceeding works, ask your lawyer what to expect. Trials, hearings and other proceedings differ slightly in length and activity, and your lawyer will be able to describe the differences.
Prepare Your Documentation and Case
- Read through all your court documents and communications to ensure you’re familiar with your case.
- Have multiple printed or certified copies of documents.
- Prepare any paperwork that your lawyer has requested.
- Discuss your goals and potential outcomes with your lawyer. In a criminal case, such as charges for drunk driving, what kind of plea deal would you accept? In a child custody case, will you appeal if sole custody is denied? Discussing these ahead of time will help you be more prepared.
Know the Difference Between Criminal Court and Family Court
Different types of proceedings have different terminology and processes in Minnesota. It’s important to know which court you will be in:
- In family court, the parties are called the “petitioner” and the “respondent.” The petitioner is the person who filed the lawsuit. There is no verdict of “guilty” or “not guilty.” Instead, the judge makes determinations based on the evidence and what appears more likely to be true.
- In criminal court, the parties are always the state and the defendant. Defendants are found to be “guilty” or “not guilty.” Standards of review are stricter in criminal court than in family court; to be found guilty, the evidence must prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Don’t Try Anything Unusual the Night Before Court
You’re probably going to be nervous before court. Nerves happen to everyone, and that’s okay.
Some people will try anything to sleep the night before a court date. We don’t advise that. For example, don’t take sleeping medication for the first time or have a few drinks to put your mind at ease. These could leave you feeling groggy or hungover in court.
Try to get good sleep in the days leading up to that, even if you can’t sleep that night. Don’t change your routines. Just practice self-care and do your best.
Arrive Early to the Proceeding
Give yourself extra time to get to the courthouse. Know the location, where to park and where to meet your lawyer. Plan your route ahead of time.
Add extra time to make sure you get there early even if there’s an unexpected delay. Getting there early gives you time to go through the building’s metal detectors and find the courtroom. Often, your lawyer will meet you so you can walk in together.
Wear Respectful Clothing
The court demands respect, including respectful attire. That doesn’t mean you have to wear a suit like your lawyer (although you may). It means you should wear clean, well-fitting business-casual clothes in good condition. A blouse or button-down shirt with dress pants is a good choice.
Keep to traditional colors like black, blue, gray and brown. Wear layers, including a cardigan or blazer, in case the courtroom is too hot or cold.
To make a good first impression, keep your clothes simple and classic. Don’t wear T-shirts with funny sayings, ripped jeans, strong perfume, or tight or short clothes.
Know When To Listen and When To Speak in Court
It’s critical to address the court with respect, both in your speech and in your actions.
Listen As Others Speak
Wait for your turn to talk, and don’t interrupt the judge, your attorney or the other party.
If the other party says something you disagree with, being disrespectful to them can reflect negatively on you. Don’t roll your eyes, shake your head or mutter under your breath. No matter what, stay composed. Angry outbursts only hurt your case; they don’t gain the judge’s empathy.
Speak Only When Asked
When asked, answer questions directly without making excuses or being argumentative. Just be brief, honest and to the point. And be sure to speak loudly and clearly; don’t just nod or shake your head.
Remember to call the judge “Your Honor” and refer to other court members respectfully as well.
Show Respect in Other Ways, Too
Spit out any gum before entering the courtroom. You should also make sure your phone is on silent or airplane mode. Even a vibrating phone can be distracting, so make sure the ringer is completely off.
Remember That You’re Not Doing This Alone—There’s Someone On Your Side
Going to court can feel intimidating, especially when you don’t know what to expect. But remember that you don’t have to face the court alone. Your attorney will be with you throughout the process to help make sure things go smoothly.
At White & Associates, we stand by our clients to help them get the best possible results in court. To learn more about our services, call us at 763-241-0477 or contact us online.
