When people think about Las Vegas, they visualize a bar with rich people with beautiful girls around them, gambling their money and partying all night. However, it is not only about that. No wonder fun is unlimited here, but also the crime rate here is quite high. A Las Vegas criminal defense attorney is thus a highly demanded individual. The job of a Las Vegas criminal defense lawyer is to help his client to get out of all the trouble. Court hearings are held and the judiciary decides whether the person is guilty or non guilty. However, before you enter the courtroom, you should be well aware with courtroom etiquette. After all, nothing can be more embarrassing than appearing as a manner less individual in front of the judge. Following are some guidelines that will help you to maintain good courtroom manners;
• Hygiene is the most primary of all manners. Of course, this must be something you would consider as the basic part, but this is as important as all the rest. Brush your teeth before the hearing, wear neat clothes and never smoke just a while before your session is to be held. Shave if you do not have a beard or a moustache.
• Dress up nicely. Your attire reflects your true personality. Although a suit and a tie would do, but is not necessary at all times. A crisp shirt, neatly tucked in would be a respectful avatar. Women should also dress up semi formal, just to denote respect to the court and the jury. Women should dress to stay modest and a little conservative, do not overdress or wear something that may be revealing.
• Respect the judge. Now this is not just limited to ‘all rise!’ You must never interrupt the judge. Let him/her speak and wait for your turn. The judge might interrupt you but for the sake of your impression on him/her you must not make that attempt. Also you should never argue with the judge. Remember, if he/she is saying something that is not in your favor, pleading and arguing will not move him.
• Always address the lawyers as “sir” and “ma’am”. As for the judge, never even think of addressing him/her without the title “your honor”. This is the only title you should address him/her with, “sir” or “ma’am” will not do.
• You must never speak unless you are asked to do so. Stay seated and quiet until you are called upon for the interrogation. Even though some people might interrupt the session to gain jury’s attention, this is not a sensible act.
• When you are being questioned, you should speak correctly and appropriately. Make use of courtesy words. Say thank you to the judge, but do not overdo it to make him/her annoyed. Use “yes” and “no”, instead of “yup” or “nope”. Also refer to lawyers with manners. For instance, use “Mr. Martin” instead of “Marty”.
• When you stand up for the judge, stand upright. Also you must not sit before the judge sits down.
• Turn off your cell phones or at least set them at silent mode when the hearing is about to be held. When you have to answer your phone, move out of the courtroom.