What not to say to a judge?

Asked by: Serena Eichmann  |  Last update: July 9, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (69 votes)

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 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.

What annoys judges?

In this article, we have listed five things that annoy judges which self-reps must try to avoid.
  • 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.

How do you impress a judge in court?

Don't be so absorbed by what you are doing that you aren't paying attention. Dress appropriately for court. Be reasonable in your requests. Don't ask a judge to something outside the judge's power. Make it easy for the judge to agree with what you ask. It is okay to be pleasant, to smile, and to be genuine.

What makes a judge mad?

Judges want their courtrooms to be professional places where justice can be served and laws are upheld. If you have an outburst of any kind, the judge is going to get agitated and/or angry. It's critical to keep your composure in the courtroom — no matter what aggravating factors are at play.

WHAT NOT TO SAY TO A JUDGE

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Can you cuss at a judge?

For example, courts have held that swearing at the judge in the courtroom is sufficient grounds for a direct contempt of court charge. Direct contempt of court is contrasted with indirect contempt of court, also known as constructive contempt.

How do you win a judge over?

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 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 make yourself look good in court?

Dress Like You Are Going to Church

All clothing should be conservative. Many courts have specific dress codes that require conservative attire to maintain decorum and respect for the judicial process. No low necklines, shorts, stiletto heels, tight jeans (actually, avoid jeans altogether), or sleeveless shirts.

What not to say in front of 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.

Will a judge read my letter?

During sentencing, a judge will typically only allow a certain number of live witnesses to testify as to a defendant's character but will accept almost any number of letters. Of course, a character letter is only effective if it is well-written and helps the judge understand a fuller picture of the defendant.

Do judges read motions before court?

If you are referring to motions on legal issues the judge will review them in the course of the hearing or trial. If you are referring to documents to be submitted as evidence the judge may rule on their relevance and/or admissibility prior to going forward .

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. "

What should you never do 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.

Can you say you don't remember in court?

Do not give attorneys answers you think they want. If you do not remember, say you don't remember – not that you do not know. Do not guess if you are not sure, unless you are instructed to give an estimate. If you make mistakes in answering, correct yourself as soon as you realize your mistake.

What can be used against you in court?

Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you.

What color do judges like to see in court?

Darker, more serious colors are preferable, and bright colors should be avoided. The best colors to wear to court are “conservative” colors (white, blue, navy, gray, and the like) and to steer clear of crazy patterns and shocking fashion statements.

How do you impress a judge?

6 Tips to Make a Good First Impression in Court
  1. Know the judge.
  2. Be organized with your paperwork.
  3. Dress Appropriately.
  4. Stay calm in front of the jury.
  5. Keep eye contact with the jury.
  6. Don't be late to court.

How do judges decide who is telling the truth?

The standard credibility instruction tells the fact-finder to consider the witness's strength of memory,ability in the described circumstances to see and hear,and the clarity with which he is able to recall events. Tone of voice,shades of expression,and gestures are also to be considered.

What do judges love?

Judges love stipulations that save time. Be intellectually honest; don't try to trick us into ruling your way. Don't say that a case says something that it doesn't say. Judges love lawyers who get to the point in a prompt and efficient manner.

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.

How to convince a judge to reduce a sentence?

Here are ways to convince a judge to give you a lesser sentence.
  1. Hire a Criminal Lawyer. An experienced criminal defense attorney can identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case. ...
  2. Present Some Mitigating Evidence. ...
  3. Cooperate With Law Enforcement. ...
  4. Strictly Follow Court Orders. ...
  5. Hire a Seasoned Attorney.

What is the hardest thing to prove in court?

Of those four components, causation is often the hardest element to prove in court.

What not to do with a judge?

Try not to ramble when offering your side of the situation as your time is limited. Remember to address the Judge when speaking, not the other party or their attorney. Don't interrupt the Judge or the other party/lawyer. Wait until it is your turn to speak.

How do you get the judge to rule in your favor?

Don't state the obvious. Make sure your argument is structured logically and presented concisely. And get to the bottom line – quickly. Tell the court what you want and why it should rule in your favor.