What do you say when talking to a judge?
Asked by: Henri Gerlach V | Last update: November 18, 2025Score: 4.3/5 (18 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.
What to say when speaking 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 start a speech to a judge?
Before your first word, look the judge directly in the eyes and then begin to speak directly to him or her. Customarily, one begins with the question, “may it please the court?” which is a courtesy to the judge to allow him or her to assent to your part of the case. Try for a conversational tone to your voice.
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 is the etiquette for talking to a judge?
DO be respectful to the judge; address him or her as "Your Honor" or "Judge." DON'T chew gum in the courtrooms. DO turn pagers and cellular telephones off while visiting the Courthouse. DON'T bring food or beverages into a courtroom.
What Do I Say to the Judge in Court?
What not to tell a judge?
- 'I Did It. ' ...
- 'They Didn't Tell Me...' ...
- Expletives. ...
- Lies, Lies, Lies. ...
- 'I Will Represent Myself.
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 can I impress a judge?
Make it clear to the judge that you are focused solely on persuading him or her as the decision maker. Build and maintain your credibility as much as possible. Be prepared, clear, and concise. As a general rule, do not argue contested facts.
What questions will a judge 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?
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.
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.
What do judges look for in a speech?
A good speech will be:
Focused (has a purpose) Structured (clear beginning, middle, and end) Engaging (gets audience attention and drives them to a purpose) Supported with relevant examples, facts, etc.
What does a judge say first?
The bailiff announces when a judge enters a courtroom by saying, “All rise!” to show respect. Everyone stands until the judge says, “Please be seated.” 2. The jury is seated where members can see all trial actions easily.
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.
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 to win a judge over in court?
- Find the Right Court. Laypeople are often surprised to learn that their local courthouses have many different courts inside. ...
- Litigate for the Right Reasons. ...
- Mediate Instead of Litigate. ...
- Communicate With Your Attorney. ...
- Be Willing to Negotiate. ...
- Follow Court Procedures. ...
- You'll Need a Good Lawyer.
What questions are not allowed in court?
On direct examination, you will usually only be allowed to ask open-ended questions that do not lead your witnesses in a certain way or influence their answers. “Leading questions,” where you suggest the answer to the question, are not allowed.
What are 3 things a judge does?
Judges preside over hearings and listen to the arguments of opposing parties. Judges and hearing officers oversee legal matters in court or administrative proceedings. They may conduct pretrial hearings, facilitate negotiations between opposing parties, and issue legal decisions.
What are Judgemental questions?
These are questions that imply judgement. Sometimes it's a statement rather than a question itself but the tone implies judgement on your behalf. 'Why do you think that? ' can be seen as judgemental and 'why' questions in general that are directed at a person can be seen as judgemental.
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 looks good to a judge?
Appearance is important:
A neat appearance and proper dress in court are important. A suit is not required, but jeans and a T-shirt may threaten your credibility. Proper dress shows respect for the court. No hats!
How to start a conversation with a judge?
If the presiding judge or an attorney requires more details, they will ask you to explain further. It may also help to prepare a brief opening statement in which you introduce yourself, summarize why you are in court, and explain the outcome that you seek.
What not to say in court?
Don't mumble; speak loudly enough to be heard by everyone in the room. 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.
How can I talk to a judge?
If you want to tell the judge about your case or if you want to ask the judge to take cer tain action in your case, you should not call or write the judge directly. Instead, you should mail a written motion to the clerk of the judge's court or drop off that document in person at the clerk's office.
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.