About Us

Courtroom Rules & Etiquette

• No photography, audio or video recording is allowed without prior authorization of the Court.
• There is no smoking, food or drinks allowed in the courtroom.
• Weapons are strictly prohibited from the building.
• There are no child care facilities provided by the Court. Children who become disruptive will be required to remain outside the courtroom under adult supervision.
• A court session begins when the bailiff states, "All rise." Everyone in the courtroom should rise. The Judge will take his place on the bench. Please be patient and wait until your name is called. Once you have been called, you may proceed to the podium before Judge Hill.
• Be on time and stay in the courtroom until your name is called.
• Disruptive behavior such as talking, laughing, shouting or creating other loud disturbances will not be tolerated. The security staff may remove offenders from the building and the Judge may hold you in contempt of court.
• Stand with proper posture when you speak and when the Judge speaks to you. Address the Judge as "Your Honor."
• Do not use slang unless it is a direct quote from the evidence stated as testimony.
• Bring pertinent paperwork relevant to your charge(s). Always pass all documents to the court bailiff. Never directly approach the Judge's bench.
• If you do not understand a part of the procedure, please ask for an explanation.