Attending court can be a daunting thought, and for many, a new experience. Without having been to court previously, it is difficult to know the protocols of attending. There are a number of reasons why there is a requirement to attend Court. You might be:

• An accused person
• A witness in either a criminal or civil trial
• A party in a civil trial
• A victim of crime
• A juror
• An interested party
• Paying fines.

Key Protocols
There are several key protocols to follow when going to court, and there is an expectation that they are met by every person who enters a courtroom:

• Upon entering and exiting the room, acknowledge the judge and jury by pausing at the door and bowing your head towards the Coat of Arms located behind the Judicial Officer.
• Stand when the Judge or Magistrate enters the room
• Stand whenever the Judge or Commissioner is talking to you, or if you are talking to them
• The following are not permitted in the courtroom:
  • Talking
  • Wearing hats
  • Smoking
  • Eating or chewing gum
  • Video or other cameras, tape recorders, two-way radios or other electronic equipment
• You must turn off your mobile phone
• Dress code is neat and smart – a suit is not necessary. It is inappropriate to wear singlets, thongs, hat or sunglasses
• Addressing the Judge or Magistrate as ‘Your Honour’, ‘Sir’, or ‘Madam’

We are qualified to attend any court or tribunal in Australia, and can so represent you in metropolitan or regional courts. Call us today on 08 7132 5636 to speak to our experienced Adelaide lawyers and discuss how we can help you in attending court.