Difference between revisions of "Etiquette for Criminal Matters (1:III)"

#Be well groomed and well dressed. Men must wear a suit jacket (blazer), dress pants, and a tie; while women must wear a blazer and skirt or dress pants. Shoes (as with all attire) must be professional.

#Always act with professionalism & integrity. Never mislead the Court.

#Maintain  an  attitude  of  confidence,  politeness,  and  courtesy  to  all  court  personnel  and opposing counsel.

#Be punctual. Don't waste the Court's time.

#Address the court in a loud clear voice. Most microphones in the courtrooms are only for recording and not for amplification purposes.

#Always identify yourself as a student with LSLAP. Introduce yourself by stating your name for  the  record  and  spelling  your  surname. ''If  you  have  a  supervising  lawyer  present, always introduce them.''

#Stand and bow when the judge enters or leaves the courtroom.

#Stand when addressing the Court, being addressed by the Court, objecting and responding to objections. Stand when (or if) your client is being sentenced or convicted.

#Sit when opposing counsel is speaking to the court, or interjects to make an objection.

#Stand on the other side of the podium from Crown Counsel and furthest away from the witness box.

#Be well prepared. Know the factual basis of your file, the applicable law and the relevant procedural rules. Part of being well prepared means being able to answer questions from the court.

#Pause briefly to consider your words and then respond.

#Address all remarks to opposing counsel through the Court.

#Don't quarrel with opposing counsel or the Court.  

#Be respectful in your comments. In your dealings with the Court adopt a formal approach which reflects courtesy and respect for the authority of the court. Let the court know what you are doing with phrases such as "with your Honour's leave I would like to approach the witness to show him his statement."

#Don't interrupt the judge. Listen to what the judge says.

#Pause briefly to consider your words and then respond.

#Address all remarks to opposing counsel through the Court.

#Don't quarrel with opposing counsel or the Court.