What is the first thing a judge says in court?

Asked by: Dawson Feil Sr.  |  Last update: November 11, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (32 votes)

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 do they say at the beginning of a court case?

Judge (first name) presiding. Please be seated. Judge: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Calling the case of the People of the State of California versus (defendant's first name).

What are things judges say?

Statements
  • At this time the defense rests.
  • At this time the government rests.
  • Criminal cause for pleading, U.S. vs. ...
  • Each count carries a (X dollars) fine.
  • (Exhibit one, etc.) is received in evidence.
  • (Exhibit one, etc.) is marked as evidence.
  • I'll enter a not guilty plea on your behalf.

How do judges introduce themselves in court?

Judge's Introductory Remarks

My name is Carlos Samour, and I am the judge assigned to this division. Let me start off by thanking each of you for responding to your jury summons today. We realize what a sacrifice it is for you to put your lives on hold and respond to jury duty.

What does the judge say at the start of a case?

What does the judge say at the beginning of court? “Good morning/good afternoon, counsel. Are we here on <name of case>?” Counsel announces their names and who they represent, or at least which side. Generally, the races then begin with the calling of the side with the proof burden's first witness.

What Do I Say to the Judge in Court?

28 related questions found

What are examples of opening statements?

Some examples:
  • “This is a case about taking chances.”
  • “Mary Jones had a dream and a plan.”
  • “Revenge. That's what this case is all about.”
  • “This is also a case about pain. Mr. Johnson's only companion today is constant pain.”
  • “This is a case about police brutality”

What is the first to hear a case?

Original jurisdiction refers to a court's authority to hear and decide a case for the first time before any appellate review occurs. Trial courts typically have original jurisdiction over the types of cases that they hear, but some federal and state trial courts also hear appeals in specific instances.

What is a judges opening statement?

An opening statement describes the parties, outlines the nature of the issue in dispute , presents a concise overview of the facts and evidence so that the jury can better understand the overall case, frames the evidence in a way that is favorable to the counsel's theory of the case, and outlines what the counsel ...

How to greet 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.

What should you not say to 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 are the repeated phrases in judges?

Judges 17-21: Israel Descends Into Self-Destruction

They are structured by a key phrase that gets repeated four times: “In those days, Israel had no king and everyone did what was right in their own eyes” (Judg. 17:6, 18:1, 19:1, and 21:25).

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 does JS mean in court?

JS is most likley a judgment stay of a period of time giving the accused the ability to pay up within 10 days.

What do you first say to a judge?

NOTE TO ALL PARTICIPANTS: Always address the judge by saying “Your Honor.” Opening of Trial: Bailiff: Please rise.

What do judges say when the case is closed?

The judge typically ends a trial by formally pronouncing a verdict and sentencing the defendant, if applicable. The exact wording of the judge's statement varies depending on the particular case and the applicable laws.

Who speaks first in court?

The side bringing the case is the side that bears the burden of proof, and thus always goes first. This is the prosecuting attorney in a criminal case, or the plaintiff in a civil case. The defense then follows with their opening statement.

How do you 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 not to say in a court hearing?

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…”

Why can't you chew gum in court?

Neither snacks nor beverages are allowed in the courtroom. Even chewing gum can be seen as a sign of disrespect, especially while speaking to the Judge. Make sure you wake up early enough before your court appointment to have breakfast and coffee, so that you'll be alert and able to focus.

How do you introduce yourself in court?

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 is the best opening statement in court?

The opening statement should be straightforward and direct. Avoid exaggerating or misstating the facts, and don't overdo the emotion. If a lawyer relies on exaggeration to appeal to the jury, he or she will certainly hear about “broken promises” in opposing counsel's closing arguments.

What questions do judges 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?

What comes first in court?

The party that filed the first court papers, usually called the complaint or the petition, is considered the plaintiff or the petitioner. The plaintiff/petitioner will tell his/her side of the story first. This includes the party's testimony, calling any witnesses s/he may have, and entering any evidence that s/he has.

What is the rule of four?

On the face of it, the Supreme Court's “Rule of Four” is straightforward. Where the justices have discretion as to whether to hear an appeal, at least four of the Court's members must vote to grant a writ of certiorari, which facilitates a full review on the merits.

Who can overrule a judge?

Most federal court decisions, and some state court rulings, can be challenged. The U.S. courts of appeals usually have the last word. The nation's 94 federal judicial districts are organized into 12 regional circuits, each of which has a court of appeals.