How to Impress the Judge

If you have to go to Court, you are likely going to appear in front of the Judge.  You may stand in front of the bench where the Judge sits, or you may be at a counsel table with your lawyer, or you may be on the witness stand.

When you are in Court like that, you certainly want to get as favorable a ruling as possible.  The facts and law matter, but a third factor that can't be overlooked is how you appear to the Judge.  When you are in Court, you are being evaluated by the Judge as well as the other side's attorney.  Making a good impression can help your cause.

Here are some things to keep in mind when considering how to favorably impress the Judge.

1.  Appear reasonable.  You are much more likely to get what you want if you don't come across as crazy or unreasonable.  The Judge is very likely to not side 100% with either party and Judges tend to split things fairly evenly.  If you start out wanting all of the most valuable things or a high percentage in the property division, that may hurt your chances of getting what you want.

2.  Appearances count.  Come to Court in nice clothes, something you might wear to church or work.  Don't be flashy or trashy.

3.  Be Prepared.  It's a good idea, even if you're not a Boy Scout.  Bring what you need.  Don't say you can bring it later; now is probably your only opportunity.  Work with your lawyer to know what you need to bring.

4.  Be under control. That's especially true in front of the Judge, but also true outside of the courtroom.  What you do and say away from Court is often reported in Court, so think about how your actions and words might sound in Court.

5.  Don't interrupt.  If you are in Court, don't interrupt attorneys, other witnesses and especially not the Judge. You're not in charge. Your attorney and the Judge know what's important.  Follow their lead, even if you don't get to share something you think is important.

6.  Don't react or be rude.  Notice that almost every time an attorney loses a ruling, he or she will usually say, "Thank you, Judge."  It is a courtesy.  Your should also be courteous.

7.  Turn off your cell phone.

Going to Court can be very stressful, but sometimes is necessary.  Do yourself a favor.  Be prepared and keep your emotions under control.  Most of all, talk with your attorney and follow his or her advice.  Good luck!

10 Tips for Going to Court

If you are in a traditionally litigated divorce, you almost inevitably will end up in Court for a hearing.  Here are some quick reminders of what you should do.

1.  Dress appropriately.  Business or church type clothing will work. Shorts won't get in the door.  Very casual makes a bad impression on the Judge.  Dress nicely.  Don't show a lot of bling.

2.  Be on time.  They might start without you or they might cancel the hearing, or the Judge could penalize you, if you're late.  Leave home early so you can get to Court on time.  Don't be surprised if there are traffic jams or accidents at rush hour.

3.  Be respectful to the Judge. Don't talk back. Don't look or act mad.  Be very polite to the Judge.


4.  Be reasonable -- even if your spouse isn't.  Think long term and remember the value in getting the case resolved instead of getting caught up in a long Court battle.

5.  Don't volunteer information.  Just answer questions directly and briefly. Volunteering information almost always leads to trouble. The Judge and attorneys may view things differently than you do, and that may mean trouble for you if you say the wrong things.

6.  Bring the information you need. Bring all the documents and other  information you need for the hearing. They won't stop the hearing and let you go home or to your vehicle to get something.

7.  Control your emotions.  Don't show anger and don't get a big grin if you think you won something.  Stay calm and let the Judge and attorneys manage things.

8.  Expect delays and resets.  It's very common for the Court to move slowly through the cases.  Everyone takes longer than they say they will.  Cases get reset all the time for lots of different reasons.  Don't be surprised or get angry if there are delays and the case gets reset until later.

9.  Don't expect a scene from a TV show or a movie.  They aren't realistic.  Pay attention to what your attorney tells you.

10.  Prepare with your attorney before you go to Court. You can meet with your attorney and discuss what to expect and how to handle questions.  You can also find out what information you need to bring.

If you will follow these suggestions, your date in Court should be a lot more comfortable!