Testifying in Court

Before Court:

• Ask for help if needed.
  

  • If you need an interpreter or help due to a disability, call the court clerk before your hearing.   

     

• Choose appropriate clothing
  
  • Wear clean, neat clothes like you’re going to an office job or formal event.
  • Don’t wear casual or inappropriate clothes, including hats.
  • Take out any facial piercings and cover tattoos, if possible 

  • If jewelry or makeup is to be worn, only wear a small amount.

     

• Bring what you need.
  
  • Physical evidence (pictures, receipts, etc.) 

  • Evidence that is on your phone (emails, messages, pictures) 

     

• Do NOT bring:
  
  • Pepper spray/mace, sharp objects, or weapons.
  • Your children - unless they are testifying or the hearing is about them.
  • Try not to bring a purse or bag; getting it through security could make you late

When to Get There and What to Do?

• Be at court at least 15 minutes before your case is scheduled.  Leave time to get through security.
• Ask a security officer where to go if you’re not sure.  You can show them your court papers.
• Listen for instructions (i.e. wait for your name to be called).
• Let the judge know you’re there once your name is called.
• If the other attorney attempts to speak with you, you do NOT have to speak with them.

While Testifying

• Tell the truth.
• Be polite
• Call the judge “Your Honor.”
• Call the lawyers “sir” or “ma’am.”
• Stop talking after answering a question.
• If you need to explain an answer, then say you need to explain it and do so.

What if the Lawyer Objects to Your Testimony?

Pause your talking immediately. Wait for the judge to over-rule or sustain the objection. If over-ruled, you may continue speaking.  If sustained, simply wait to be asked another question. 

What else?

• If you don’t understand a question, don’t answer it.  Ask for clarification.
• If you don’t know the answer to a question, just say you don’t know.