Is it OK to say yes sir to judge?
Asked by: Dixie Kiehn III | Last update: August 9, 2025Score: 4.8/5 (10 votes)
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.” Special Titles.
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 say yes to judge?
When answering questions, respond to “yes” or “no” questions with appropriate honorifics. In most cases it is important to say "Yes, your honor" or "No, your honor." Using "your honor" is the easiest way to show respect and avoid offending your judge.
Is it OK to say yes sir?
In the case of sir and ma'am, it is as appropriate in the northern, eastern and western parts of the country as it is in the South. It's not so much about location, it's just polite — respectful adults using the words and mindful parents teaching their children to do the same.
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.
BUXTONIAN MORNING TIME
What annoys judges?
- 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 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.
Is yes sir grammatically correct?
According to Cambridge Dictionary, the grammatically correct version will be Yes, Sir instead of Yes sir.
Is using sir respectful?
Over the years, people began associating these terms less with the lords and ladies of feudal days of old and more as signs of respect, conventionally for those older or at a higher rank than you, like a grandmother or a boss.
What does saying yes sir mean?
used for expressing strong agreement: He asked if he could talk to me, and I said, "Yes, sir." (Definition of yes, sir from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)
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?
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 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 you say yes 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 can I say instead of yes sir?
- yea. adv.
- yuppers. adv.
- yah. adv.
- yep. adv.
- yup. adv.
- certainly. int. & adv.
- okay. int. & adv.
- righto. int. & adv.
What not to say in court as a witness?
Don't lie about anything, not even white [small] lies. If you are discovered to be lying, the judge may find it hard to believe you when you are telling the truth. Don't argue with the questioner. Don't ask questions back: “What would you do if…”
When should I use sir?
"Sir" is a polite and formal title used to address a man in a respectful and polite manner. The term "sir" is commonly used in various social contexts, such as addressing authority figures, customers, or individuals of higher social status.
Who should be called sir?
Additionally, since the late modern period, Sir has been used as a respectful way to address a man of superior social status or military rank. Equivalent terms of address for women are Madam (shortened to Ma'am), in addition to social honorifics such as Mrs, Ms, or Miss.
Is Dear sir still acceptable?
Generally, “Dear Sir or Madam” is considered outdated. Whenever possible, use a specific name or team greeting in business communication.
Is yes sir disrespectful?
The perception of 'yessir' as derogatory or offensive largely depends on the context and the relationship between the speakers. In casual, friendly, or familiar settings, it is often accepted as a sign of respect.
Is sir a polite word?
sir noun [C] (USED TO ADDRESS)
a polite word used to address a man: Excuse me, sir, do you know what time it is?
What not to say in front of a judge?
- 'I Did It. ' ...
- 'They Didn't Tell Me...' ...
- Expletives. ...
- Lies, Lies, Lies. ...
- 'I Will Represent Myself.
What to say to a judge at sentencing?
Avoid making excuses. Instead, let the Judge know you are remorseful, and that you will do whatever it takes to avoid getting in trouble again. A great speech at sentencing is a brief and sincere-sounding apology to the victims and the court.
How to stay calm in a courtroom?
Stand when the judge enters and sit when the judge or bailiff asks you to. Try to remain calm but it is OK if you show emotion. Take deep breaths if you feel yourself getting tense. Never lose your temper in the courtroom.