You're someone that's never been in a courtroom before. But that's okay, because many of us haven't. It's completely understandable if the thought makes you nervous. Many of us have not had to encounter such a situation previously.
However, it is essential that any questions or apprehensions are cleared prior to your hearing, whether you're attending for yourself or as a support system for someone else. Keep reading below for some frequently asked questions regarding courtrooms which will help put your mind at ease and prepare you better!
Who is allowed in the courtroom?
Except in cases where juveniles are involved, members of the general public are allowed in the courtroom provided they are not disruptive and follow security protocols.
Are children allowed in the courtroom?
Children are allowed as long as they aren’t disruptive, the courthouse does not provide childcare so if you are worried about your children being disruptive try and arrange for childcare beforehand.
Are cell phones allowed?
Cell phones are allowed in the building but banned in the courtroom. Make sure you silence your cell phone, or turn it off completely, prior to entering the courtroom to avoid unnecessary repercussions.
Where do I park? Is parking FREE?
Some courthouses offer FREE parking, while others do not. Repetto Law, LLC suggests you plan ahead and allot enough time to find parking (especially in Providence) so you are not late, and things can go as smoothly as possible.
On-street parking with meters or private lots/garages for a fee
Garrahy Judicial Complex (1 Dorrance Plaza, Providence, RI 02903)
Licht Judicial Complex (250 Benefit Street, Providence, RI 02903)
FREE parking
Noel Judicial Complex (222 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886)
McGrath Judicial Complex (4800 Tower Hill Road, Wakefield, RI 02879)
Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal (670 New London Ave, Cranston, RI 02920)
On-street parking with meters only
Murry Judicial Complex (45 Washington Square, Newport, RI 02840)
What should I wear?
First impressions are important everywhere you go, but they are especially important when you go to court. It is important you present the best image you can. You want the judge, prosecutor, and other court officials to know you are taking everything seriously and treating the court with respect. “Dressing for success” is highly recommended and will help your attorney in his or her representation on your behalf as well. You should wear something you would wear to church, work, or a nice dinner or social function (it is generally acceptable to wear a work uniform, unless you wear shorts to work).
Clothing encouraged for court:
Suit with tie
Sports coat
Collared button-down shirt
Long pants or slacks
Conservative dress or skirt
Pants suit
What NOT to wear to court:
Shorts
Cut-offs
Pajamas
Sweatpants
Sunglasses
Hats
Shirts with logos
Jeans with holes, rips, or tears
Clothing that makes noise or is disruptive (e.g., flip flops, certain jewelry, etc.)
Revealing clothing (e.g. sleeveless or muscle shirts, crop tops, belly shirts,
miniskirts, clothing that shows your undergarments, etc.)
What should I expect on the day of court?
On the day of court, unless you are already assigned a specific hearing time you will be expected to arrive before 9:00 a.m. (district court) or 9:30 a.m. (superior court) unless otherwise instructed. Family court and traffic court times very. When the judge enters, you will be instructed to stand then most judges will move right onto the calendar call. A calendar call is when the judge reads the list of the cases scheduled in that particular courtroom that day. If you are representing yourself or your attorney is not there in court with you, you should answer “here” when your case is called.
Otherwise, your attorney will respond with a term that best fits the status of your particular case. Among other responses, you will often hear attorneys call cases “ready subject” (i.e., the case will be heard subject to the attorney’s arrival), “ready formal” (i.e., the parties need to place something formal on the record, usually a new date), “ready pre-trial” (i.e., the parties are present and accounted for but things still need to get done), “ready conference” (i.e., the attorneys need to conference the case with the judge at the bench or in private chambers or), or “ready hearing/trial” (i.e., the parties and witnesses are presented and accounted for and ready to proceed).
What is court etiquette?
The courtroom is a place where certain behavior is expected, certain attire is accepted, and a certain level of respect is demanded. You should dress neatly and clean. If you fail to present yourself appropriately, you could (even inadvertently) give the wrong impression to the judge and others. It is also expected that you arrive on time, I suggest getting to the courthouse thirty minutes early, maybe earlier if you live in a high traffic area.
Not arriving on time could also result in a warrant for your arrest or other orders against you. Cell phones should be silenced, if not turned off completely. There should never be food or beverages in the courtroom. While waiting for your case sit quietly and do not chew gum. Finally, when speaking to the judge, you should stand up and address him or her as “Your Honor” or “Judge” and do not approach the judge unless asked to do so.
Who do I contact if I need an interpreter?
If you do not speak fluent English it is important to get an interpreter; if you need one someone can be appointed to you through the court. Please call the Office of Court Interpreters at (401) 222- 8710 or email them at interpreterfeedback@courts.ri.gov before your court date in order to ensure that someone is available. If you are in need of assistive listening equipment or an ASL interpreter, please call the Clerk’s Office during business hours and before the scheduled hearing.
For more courtroom-related questions, feel free to contact us!
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