Courtroom etiquette is the code that governs the conduct of persons in the courtroom.
Please keep in mind that the courthouse is a very traditional, formal place that demands a respectful, sensitive, and serious attitude.
There are informal rules regarding the behaviour of people watching/observing court proceedings. For further information, see The Courtwatcher's Manual by J. Blackwell.
Information on proper etiquette for people going to trial can be found in the following publications:
Chapter 5, section 1.1. of An Advocacy Primer provides a brief overview of "Courtroom Courtesies", such as how to address the various participants in a trial, when and where to stand, when to bow, etc. The Justice Education Society also has several pages detailing proper behaviour for presenting and appearing in court.
- The courtwatcher's manual by Judith Ann Blackwell and Ann-Marie Metten – on-site at Courthouse Libraries
- An advocacy primer by Lee Stuesser – Courthouse Libraries
- Presenting in Court – Justice Education Society
- "Appearing in Court". By Justice Education Society, Overview of the Civil Litigation Process – Justice Education Society