How do you introduce yourself to a judge in court?

Asked by: Wilfredo Jacobi  |  Last update: January 1, 2026
Score: 4.6/5 (60 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 first say to a judge?

The best bet is, ``Your Honor'' and if they ask you a question (any lawyer, any officer of the court), always address your answer to the judge, so, answer ``Yes, sir'' or ``Yes, ma'am'' or ``Yes, Your Honor.'' Sounds archaic, but really, this formal address is showing respect for the authority of the judge.

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.”

What does a judge want to hear?

The judge will normally want to hear first from the claimant (the person who started the case, or made the application) then the defendant (the per- son disputing it). Seeing a person give evidence helps the judge de- cide whether that person is telling the truth.

What should you not say to a judge?

EDIT: What are you not supposed to say to a judge? Anything disrespectful, disruptive or threatening. This is to include yelling, cursing, and refusing to cooperate. It's not about a power trip, or ego, or absolute power corrupting absolutely, or any of the other crap responses I deleted.

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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.

How to impress a judge in court?

Dress professionally and appropriately. It is not necessary to dress like a lawyer, but conservative and “business casual” is a good rule. Do wear tidy clothing and groom yourself neatly. You want to be taken seriously by the judge.

What persuades a judge?

Judges expect advocates to present arguments completely and honestly. Completely means knowing the record as well the adversary's con- tentions. Honestly means presenting all information accurately, even if that requires the advocate to concede some points. a trial or appellate judge is to win.

How to make a judge feel sorry for you?

You should not attempt to elicit sympathy from the judge. The judge will not feel sorry for you for committing the crime, he or she will feel sympathy for the victim (in the case that there was one). Playing the pity card will simply come across as a ploy to get off easy. If you can help yourself, don't cry.

What questions do judges usually 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 do you introduce yourself to 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.

What to wear for court?

Dress in Business Casual, Dress Properly

For men, opt for a suit and tie or a button-down shirt; anything that falls under business attire is a good option. Women can choose a business-appropriate dress, skirt, or pantsuit. Avoid flashy colors or overly casual attire.

Do you say yes sir to a judge?

Smith.” When you are asked a question by the judge, don't nod your head “yes” or “no.” Answer “Yes, your honor,” or “No, your honor.” Showing respect for the judge and other officers of the court will go a long way toward showing the judge that you recognize the gravity of the situation and that you are also entitled ...

What is good to say to judge?

Don't just tell them what you think about it but tell them how that reflection has changed you. Talk to the judge about the things that you've done to try to make it better since you committed the crime but don't just talk about the things you've done like it's a list.

How do judges introduce themselves?

Good morning/afternoon, I am INSERT NAME/TITLE presiding over INSERT NAME OF COURT. Today is INSERT DATE AND TIME, and we are here in the matter of INSERT NAME OF CASE/CASE NUMBER. Will the parties please identify themselves by name and state your affiliation to this case?

How early should I show up to court?

Show up early.

It does not matter that, according to your attorney or according to your own personal experience, nothing gets rolling at your particular courthouse until 10:10. If the time of the call is 9:30, aim to be at least 20 minutes early.

What colors do judges favor?

Darker, more serious colors are preferable, and bright colors should be avoided. The best colors to wear to court are “conservative” colors (white, blue, navy, gray, and the like) and to steer clear of crazy patterns and shocking fashion statements.

What not to say in front of 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.

What happens if I cry in court?

Is It Okay to Cry in Court? Yes, it is okay to cry in court. A whole category of legal damages is calculated by quantifying a victim's pain and suffering, so why wouldn't you let a judge or jury know when you are sad?

How do you get the judge to rule in your favor?

Don't state the obvious. Make sure your argument is structured logically and presented concisely. And get to the bottom line – quickly. Tell the court what you want and why it should rule in your favor.

What can influence a judge's decision?

with the judge's individual temperament, personal impulses, and lifelong experiences, create a predisposition whereby certain judges are inclined to arrive at certain decisions.

How to get on a judge's good side?

Seven Tips When Representing Yourself In Court
  1. Make a good impression. If you dress nicely, it tells the judge that you respect the courtroom and care about your case.
  2. Be respectful. ...
  3. Know what to ask. ...
  4. Arrive early. ...
  5. Tell your story. ...
  6. Come prepared. ...
  7. Use a lawyer if you need help.

How to make yourself look good in court?

Dress Like You Are Going to Church

All clothing should be conservative. Many courts have specific dress codes that require conservative attire to maintain decorum and respect for the judicial process. No low necklines, shorts, stiletto heels, tight jeans (actually, avoid jeans altogether), or sleeveless shirts.

What should I wear to impress a judge?

General courtroom attire guidelines

This means avoiding casual items like jeans, sweatpants, T-shirts, sneakers, or flip-flops​. Garments with holes or stains will tell the court that you're not taking this seriously. Instead, make a positive fashion statement by opting for business casual or more conservative dress.

How do you say hi to a judge in court?

Address the judge only as “your honor” when addressing the judge in the courtroom. Refer to the judge as “the Court”, “his honor,” or “her honor” if you need to refer to the judge while addressing a witness or the jury. Stop speaking if the judge begins to speak.