What is the etiquette for the Supreme Court in BC?
Asked by: Gerald Hoeger | Last update: February 11, 2026Score: 4.1/5 (9 votes)
Etiquette for the BC Supreme Court involves dressing formally (like a job interview), standing when the judge enters/exits and when speaking to them, addressing judges as "Justice [Last Name]" or "Mr./Madam Justice," avoiding interruptions, and keeping electronic devices off and away, with specific rules for virtual hearings, all aimed at showing respect and maintaining order.
What is the courtroom etiquette in BC?
For Provincial Court counsel are expected to wear business attire and all other parties should dress as though attending court in person. Say your name and identify yourself when you speak and mute your microphone when you're not speaking.
Is there a dress code at the Supreme Court?
Appropriate attire includes: Business suit and tie. Pantsuit or dress suit. Dress pants and dress shirt with tie.
How to address a judge in BC Supreme Court?
Supreme Court Judges
In writing, refer to a judge of the Supreme Court as “The Honourable Mr./Madam Justice”, followed by his/her last name (e.g. The Honourable Mr. Justice Brown).
Can you wear jeans to court as a spectator?
As long as you're jeans aren't baggy, hanging below your waist, ripped/torn or ``faded''.... You are fine. Just keep in mind that you must still maintain yourself ``presentable''. You don't want to look like a ``hippie'' or a ``Bob the bum'', so make sure you wear a shirt with a collar.
British Columbia Supreme Court - Family Law Rules
What clothes are not allowed in court?
To avoid being denied entry or creating a poor impression in court, don't wear casual items like shorts, flip-flops, ripped jeans, tank tops, or athletic wear, revealing clothing such as crop tops or short skirts, or anything with distracting graphics, slogans, or excessive, noisy jewelry; also, remove hats and sunglasses and maintain good hygiene. The goal is to dress conservatively and respectfully, similar to business casual, to show seriousness and avoid distractions.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for clothes?
By selecting three tops, three bottoms and three pairs of shoes that can all work together, this guideline says, you can build your own capsule wardrobe.
How much does a Supreme Court judge make in BC?
2022, c.
(a) the Chief Justice of British Columbia, $371,400; (b) the 12 Justices of Appeal, $338,800 each; (c) the Chief Justice and the Associate Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, $371,400 each; and. (d) the 86 other judges of the Supreme Court, $338,800 each.
Can I wear clogs to court?
Avoid tennis shoes, sneakers, sandals, and Crocs when you're headed before the judge and jury. Wear closed-toe dress shoes.
What to wear when visiting the Supreme Court?
Does the Court require certain attire for attending a Court session? Sunglasses, identification tags (other than military), display buttons, and inappropriate clothing may not be worn in the Courtroom when Court is in session.
What does it mean when a judge wears a purple robe?
In general, purple is a color historically associated with royalty, authority, and power, and its use in robes and other clothing reflects these associations. In many countries, judges and other legal officials wear purple robes as a symbol of their authority and impartiality.
Can I bring water into a courthouse?
Attending Court Sessions
The following items are strictly prohibited in the Courtroom while Court is in session: Electronic devices of any kind (laptops, cameras, video recorders, cell phones, tablets, smart watches, etc.) Food or beverages. Briefcases, purses or bags, hats, overcoats, sunglasses.
What is the B word for lawyer?
The "B word" for a lawyer, especially in the UK and Commonwealth countries, is Barrister, which refers to a specialist lawyer who argues cases in higher courts, distinct from a solicitor, though other terms like Attorney, Counsel, or even the pejorative "ambulance chaser" can be used, while "Esquire" (Esq.) is a title for any licensed lawyer in the U.S.
What not to say during court?
In court, avoid lying, exaggerating, interrupting, arguing with the judge, using disrespectful or casual language (like "whatever" or "huh?"), making threats, giving more information than asked, and getting emotional, as this undermines credibility and can lead to contempt; instead, be clear, concise, factual, and respectful, addressing the judge as "Your Honor".
What colors do judges like to see?
Above All, Dress Conservatively and Respectfully
Dressing appropriately is essential to convey respect for the court and the seriousness of the proceedings. Navy blue is a preferred color choice, as it conveys professionalism and makes a serious impression on judges and juries.
Is it okay to say yes sir to a judge?
Always make sure to address the judge as your honor. If the judge asks you questions, answer with respectful phrases like, yes sir, yes ma am, or yes, your honor.
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.
How do you say good morning to a judge?
Do not say “good morning” to a judge or a witness. You'll normally be introduced by your opponent if you're defending. If not, you can open by saying: “May it please your honour, I appear for the defendant.”
How many judges are in the Supreme Court of BC?
1996, c. 443, provides for a Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, an Associate Chief Justice, and 95 other justices. The legislation also provides for supernumerary judges who sit hearing cases part-time. There are also 13 Supreme Court associate judges who hear and dispose of a wide variety of applications in chambers.
Do justices get paid after retirement?
A judge may choose to retire from the office entirely (as I have done), at which point they no longer hold the office of federal judge or justice but continue to be paid an annuity equal to their salary at the time of their retirement.
Which judge has the highest salary?
The highest-paid judge in the U.S. federal system is the Chief Justice of the United States, earning $312,200 annually as of 2024, followed by Supreme Court Associate Justices at $298,500, while Judge Judy (Judy Sheindlin) earned significantly more ($47 million/year) in her television role before retiring, highlighting that entertainment judges far out-earn public officials.
What not to wear at 60?
Avoid top-to-toe baggy/oversized looks
Stay away from top-to-toe baggy/oversized looks, as they can give off a frumpy vibe. Instead, pair a looser top with tighter pants or leggings; or wear a tighter top with a maxi skirt or wide-leg pants.
What is the 7 point rule in clothing?
Each item in your outfit is worth either one or two points. Simple pieces are worth one, statement pieces are worth two. If you find yourself somewhere in the middle, I count it as one and a half. The goal is to get to seven or 8 points.
What is the 5 outfit rule?
The "5 Outfit Rule" is a smart shopping guideline: before buying a new clothing item, you must be able to envision at least five different outfits you can create with it using pieces you already own. This rule promotes mindful consumption, ensures versatile purchases, reduces impulse buys, saves money, and helps build a functional, mix-and-match wardrobe by focusing on longevity and wearability.