What do judges say at the end of a hearing?

Asked by: Dianna Gutkowski  |  Last update: May 29, 2026
Score: 5/5 (60 votes)

At the end of a hearing, a judge says things like "Court is adjourned," thanks the jury, or sets future dates, but also provides final instructions (jury charge), reads the verdict (or announces their judgment in a bench trial), and schedules sentencing if necessary, ensuring clarity on the outcome and next steps. What the judge says depends on whether it's a jury trial or a bench trial, and if a verdict has been reached.

What do judges say at the end?

Judge: (After verdict is read) Thank you, Jury, for your service today. Court is adjourned. Any attorney may object to a question asked of a witness on the stand or the admission of an exhibit if s/he feels that it does not follow a rule of evidence.

What is the closing statement of a hearing?

A closing argument is the final statement an attorney makes to a judge and jury in a civil or criminal trial to persuade them to vote favorably for their client. Closing statements are very crucial, as it is the last thing the jury hears before they begin deliberating.

How does a judge end a hearing?

The judge might then ask for closing statements, or not, depending on the court and the type of case. Closing statements are your chance to sum up the evidence and ask the judge again for a specific decision. The judge will make a decision after hearing both sides and considering the evidence.

What do you say at the end of court?

In the Crown Court the judge will explain the relevant law to the jury and summarise the case so your closing speech should highlight the key issues and explain why the jury should decide in your favour. (In some cases you may need to remind the jury of some aspects of the law, otherwise, leave it to the judge).

What Do Judges Say At The End Of A Trial? - CountyOffice.org

25 related questions found

What is a judge's final decision called?

If the case is tried by a judge, the judge's decision is called a judgment. If the case is tried by a jury, the jury's decision is called a verdict.

What phrases are said in court?

Common Courtroom Phrases

  • As jurors you are not to be swayed by sympathy.
  • Bail should be continued.
  • Call your next witness.
  • Can you tell the jury…?
  • Could you briefly describe …?
  • Could you describe the appearance of (a package, etc.)?
  • Counsel, lay a foundation.
  • Defendant will be remanded.

What is a final statement in court?

Closing argument is the lawyer's final opportunity in a trial to tell the judge and/or jury why they should win the case. They do so by explaining how the evidence supports their theory of the case, and by clarifying for the jury any issues that they must resolve in order to render a verdict.

What not to tell a judge?

When speaking to a judge, avoid disrespect (like calling them "Judge" instead of "Your Honor"), interruptions, emotional outbursts, slang, personal attacks, or guaranteeing outcomes; instead, be respectful, concise, truthful, and stick to the facts, only answering the question asked and maintaining a professional tone. Don't imply they aren't listening, threaten appeals, or make dismissive statements like "I didn't know," as courts expect responsibility and adherence to protocol. 

What is the final closing statement?

Definition. A closing statement is a document that details the financial aspects of a real estate transaction, including costs, fees, and payment schedules for both buyers and sellers.

What are some strong closing statements?

Here are some common conclusions:

  • "I am grateful for interviewing with you today. You have given me a clear overview of the position. ...
  • "Thank you for making time to interview me for the open role. I am thrilled about the prospect of working in this position and being a part of a highly reputable team."

What is a hearing process?

INTRODUCTION. The hearing is an adjudicatory proceeding that completes the process of developing a full and appropriate record. A hearing provides the parties with a fair and reasonable opportunity to explain and supplement the record and, in appropriate instances, to examine and cross-examine witnesses.

What is the closing statement in a hearing?

Closing statements

convince the chairperson why s/he should find in their favour. Parties must argue on the basis of the evidence led; no new evidence should be introduced at this stage.

Do judges have the final say?

Judges provide instructions to juries prior to their deliberations and in the case of bench trials, judges must decide the facts of the case and make a ruling. Additionally, judges are also responsible for sentencing convicted criminal defendants.

What is the first thing the judge says in court?

Walk to the front of the courtroom

When it is your turn, the judge will call your names and say your case number. You go up to the front. Someone, usually the bailiff or a clerk, will show you which side to take and tell you to sit down. The bailiff is usually the person in charge of keeping order in the courtroom.

What annoys a judge?

Other judges said they dislike personal attacks, snide remarks, innuendo, or sarcasm. One judge said his or her biggest pet peeve is “the growing tendency to wax personal in responding to arguments.” Unorganized briefs.

How to impress a judge in court?

To impress a judge, be prepared, respectful, and calm by dressing professionally, arriving early, addressing the judge as "Your Honor," speaking clearly and concisely, sticking to facts, and showing you've done your homework on the law and your case, while avoiding emotional outbursts or disrespect. Offering fair solutions upfront and admitting weaknesses can also build credibility. 

What color do judges like to see in court?

Judges prefer neutral, conservative colors like navy, gray, black, brown, and white, as they convey seriousness, respect, and professionalism, while avoiding distractions. Bright colors, flashy patterns, and overly casual attire (like shorts or t-shirts) are discouraged because they can appear unserious or disrespectful in a formal courtroom setting.
 

What happens in the final hearing?

At a final hearing, a judge makes a decision that determines your matter on a final basis. This decision is intended to be full and final. For example, in a parenting matter, the Judge often makes a decision about the care arrangements for a child until they reach 18 years of age.

What is a good closing statement?

A good closing argument reviews the evidence presented at trial. If you can, practice your closing with other attorneys on your team or with consultants. “It's no different than an oral argument, the preparation is the same,” O'Donnell said. “Think about what you want to tell the jury.

What do you call the final decision?

final judgment. Final judgment is the last decision from a court that resolves all issues in dispute and settles the parties' rights with respect to those issues.

What is a good sentence for a judge?

She is a good judge of character. Verb You should not judge people by their appearance. He was trying to judge the strength of his opponent. We should do whatever we judge to be the right thing.

What to never say in court?

In court, avoid saying anything dishonest, sarcastic, angry, or disrespectful, such as calling witnesses liars or interrupting the judge. Don't use slang, make jokes, over-explain, or give absolute answers like "always" or "never". Focus on answering only what's asked, speak clearly, admit mistakes if you make them, and avoid undermining your own case or client. 

How to talk in court with a judge?

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.