How do you introduce yourself in court?

Asked by: Cassandra Ferry  |  Last update: December 12, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (40 votes)

Stand and greet the court, then state your name and who you are representing. For example: “Good morning, your honor. My name is John Smith. I am representing the plaintiff, Ms.

What do you say at the beginning of court?

A typical introduction: “Your Honor, members of the jury, my name is (full name), representing the prosecution/defendant in this case.” If they have already been introduced, some attorneys just go right into their opening to save time, create drama, and make it look more like a real trial.

How do you introduce yourself in front of judges?

Introductions: When everyone is ready, including the judge, introduce yourself and spell your last name slowly. Tell the judge that you are representing yourself and that you are the petitioner in the judicial review. The other parties (or their lawyers) will then introduce themselves.

How do judges introduce themselves in court?

Judge's Introductory Remarks

My name is Carlos Samour, and I am the judge assigned to this division. Let me start off by thanking each of you for responding to your jury summons today. We realize what a sacrifice it is for you to put your lives on hold and respond to jury duty.

How do you say hello to a judge?

In person: In an interview, social event, or in court, address a judge as “Your Honor” or “Judge [last name].” If you are more familiar with the judge, you may call her just “Judge.” In any context, avoid “Sir” or “Ma'am.”

How to introduce yourself in court

27 related questions found

How do I introduce myself to the court?

Stand and greet the court, then state your name and who you are representing. For example: “Good morning, your honor. My name is John Smith. I am representing the plaintiff, Ms.

What do judges want to hear?

At the end of the day, a judge wants to hear three things: accountability, responsibility, and remorse. They also want to hear your reasoning. Why did you commit the crime in the first place?

What should you not say to a judge?

Here are five things all defendants will want to avoid saying to a criminal judge:
  • 'I Did It. ' ...
  • 'They Didn't Tell Me...' ...
  • Expletives. ...
  • Lies, Lies, Lies. ...
  • 'I Will Represent Myself.

Who speaks first in a court case?

The side bringing the case is the side that bears the burden of proof, and thus always goes first. This is the prosecuting attorney in a criminal case, or the plaintiff in a civil case. The defense then follows with their opening statement.

What are examples of opening statements?

Some examples:
  • “This is a case about taking chances.”
  • “Mary Jones had a dream and a plan.”
  • “Revenge. That's what this case is all about.”
  • “This is also a case about pain. Mr. Johnson's only companion today is constant pain.”
  • “This is a case about police brutality”

What to say in Introduce yourself?

Personal commercial template
  1. Greeting: Hello, my name is (name). ...
  2. Goal: I am looking for (internship/full-time position) at (employer name).
  3. Interest/passion: I am interested in (interests related to the company/industry).
  4. Strengths: I have many skills to contribute including (strengths) and (skills).

Can you say yes sir to a judge?

This will lose you the respect of the judge and the jury. Any lawyer who can make a witness mad will probably cause the witness to exaggerate, appear unobjective, and emotionally unstable. Be sure to answer "Yes Sir/Ma'am" and "No Sir/Ma'am" and to address the judge as "Your Honor. "

How do you make a good impression on a judge?

If you want the judge and jury to see you that way, be sure to take these steps before and during your court appearance.
  1. Show Up Early. ...
  2. Stay Off of Your Cell Phone. ...
  3. Dress Professionally. ...
  4. Avoid Emotional Outbursts.

What is the best thing to say in court?

No matter how upset you are or feel the process is unfair, do NOT discuss the facts of your case in open court. Let your attorney do the talking and only answer “yes, your Honor” or “no, your Honor” when a question is specifically directed at you by the judge.

How do you start off in court?

The opening statement should be straightforward and direct. Avoid exaggerating or misstating the facts, and don't overdo the emotion. If a lawyer relies on exaggeration to appeal to the jury, he or she will certainly hear about “broken promises” in opposing counsel's closing arguments.

How to act in front of a judge?

Rules are usually posted outside the courtroom, but here are some common, basic rules:
  1. Do not bring food or drinks.
  2. Turn off or silence your cell phone.
  3. Do not wear a hat or any sunglasses on your head.
  4. Don't interrupt the other side. Wait until it's your turn to speak and let the judge know you want to respond.

What questions do judges ask?

Questions a judge might ask
  • Can the prosecutor present the charges? ...
  • What evidence does the prosecution have against the defendant? ...
  • Is the evidence legally obtained and admissible? ...
  • Does the evidence establish probable cause? ...
  • Does the defense wish to cross-examine the prosecution's witnesses?

How to introduce a case in court?

If you do not begin your brief with an issue statement, that is, a syllogism ending in a question, then open with an introduction that gives the judge a short and persuasive overview of the case. Present the facts plainly and set forth the issues clearly.

Who goes last in closing arguments?

The defendant usually goes second. The plaintiff or prosecution is usually then permitted a final rebuttal argument. In some jurisdictions, however, this form is condensed, and the prosecution or plaintiff goes second, after the defense, with no rebuttals.

What annoys judges?

In this article, we have listed five things that annoy judges which self-reps must try to avoid.
  • When you put yourself in the argument. ...
  • Asking the judge if he or she has read the material. ...
  • Looking and being casual. ...
  • Stop making about on everything. ...
  • Being nasty is a case killer.

What's the best color to wear to court?

It's best to avoid bright colors. Whether you're a plaintiff or a defendant, dark or neutral colors like white, navy blue, and gray are the best colors to wear to court. Your attorney can offer guidance if you're unsure about what you're wearing.

What words should you avoid in court?

The Bad Word List, also known as the anti-reptile word list, includes: always, never, must, required, every, any, safety, priority, prevent, and violate, among others. Each word eliminates judgment and circumstances and can trap witnesses.

What to say when you don't want to answer a question in court?

If you don't want to answer a question, don't ask the judge whether you must answer it. If it is an improper question, the prosecutor trying the case will object and take it up with the judge. If there is no objection, answer the question.

How to convince a judge to reduce a sentence?

Here are ways to convince a judge to give you a lesser sentence.
  1. Hire a Criminal Lawyer. An experienced criminal defense attorney can identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case. ...
  2. Present Some Mitigating Evidence. ...
  3. Cooperate With Law Enforcement. ...
  4. Strictly Follow Court Orders. ...
  5. Hire a Seasoned Attorney.

What are the most common sentences in court?

The most common sentences are:
  • Absolute discharge.
  • Conditional discharge.
  • Suspended sentence.
  • Probation.
  • Fine.
  • Imprisonment (jail)
  • Intermittent sentence (“weekends”)
  • Conditional sentence (”house arrest”)