Clarence Darrow once said that the only true lawyers are judges. Since this is the case, any good attorney must understand the distinct difference between winning their case on paper and winning it in court. While the book is burning, it takes you through law school, helps you pass the exam or help you write. A murderous motion or brief, it takes a real courtroom to sway a savvy judge or jury in your (or your client’s) favor.
What makes a lawyer market savvy? There are no rigid rules; After all, the legal field lives largely in a gray area. That said, many seasoned practitioners agree that proper labeling, not necessarily experience, can help improve credibility and popularity in the marketplace. However, following Miss Mores will not help you win your case; proper court etiquette involves more than a simple “Court” or “Your Honor” before every argument. Read on for etiquette-tips that will help you make your best case – and save face – in court.
Be courteous. Following this simple rule with judges, clerks, court reporters, con – your team, team, witnesses, clients will make you a popular person in the local legal community. Do you have a contested hearing on a personal statement? Let the attorney be with the five-minute state perception before. Are you frantically packing your courtroom reporter at the last minute? I ask for a five-minute break so that I can either get drink water or use the restroom. Did your police officer work the night shift yesterday? Call the first witness to go home and sleep. All of these components will make your hair more prone to help you when you need it and want it.
Dress appropriately. It is desirable that this would not be ingenious, but experience suggests that it is worth remembering. While some jurisdictions may be more accepting of a newer attorney, keep in mind any professional environment. Training suits or separates (as appropriate!) are almost always appropriate and preferred. Attachments do not contain objectionable or controversial symbols. It is generally useful for covering up tattoos or removing non-traditional piercings. Tone perfume or cologne; He does not smell nearly as well as his neighbor thinks. And put on a coat; one of my favorite court stories is about a female attorney who refused to wear a bra in court and was embarrassed by a male judge who sent his assistant to put it on.
Leave it while you’re getting ahead of yourself. This is also known as “less is more”. You don’t have to meet a certain count’s word to make your point. This applies to both the argument and the examination of the witnesses. Every attorney wants Cruise himself “I want the truth!” in a moment, if not there, let them go. Likewise, do not repeat the same legal argument six times. Provide relevant examples and citations, and give us all credit. No one wants to hear you talking just for the sake of talking.
Keep an open face. Solemn judgments can be foreseen; the market is not content. Your witness may say something unexpected – and negative – about the candlestick. The judge may dismiss the motion without explanation. In a serious case, the judges can give an unjust verdict. In any of these scenarios (or any other unpredictable and frantic situation you might find yourself in), it’s important to keep your cool. Avoid sounding agitated or wobbly from surfacing in your voice. Practice breathing techniques to keep your face from flushing in anger. See where the judge is. Do whatever you need to do to look perfectly natural and ready for any possible course that could (and will) develop. Then do your best to ensure your safety. In this profession, it’s important to accept the fights you’ve dealt and jump into the next ring for the right fight.
