7 Things NOT to Do in Court in Wisconsin
Before you go to court for a criminal case in Wisconsin, your attorney will talk to you about courtroom etiquette – particularly if you’ve never been to court before or if you ask questions about the way you should act before the judge. There are seven things you should never do when you go to court, which this guide explains in detail.
7 Things You Should Never Do in Court in Wisconsin
Check out the seven things you should never do in court in Wisconsin:
- Show up late
- Use your phone
- Interrupt anyone
- Lie or exaggerate
- Volunteer extra information
- Become visibly angry
- Swear
Here’s a closer look at each.
#1. Show Up Late
It’s absolutely essential that you show up to court on time. Even if your attorney tells you to show up at 9 a.m. and that you’ll be waiting for your case to be heard, you need to be there on time. If you miss your hearing, you create a number of problems for yourself that you could have avoided by showing up when your attorney told you to.
#2. Use Your Phone
Never, ever use your phone during court. In fact, you should leave it in your car. That’s because using your phone in court is incredibly disrespectful and could get you thrown out. If you don’t have any other option but to bring your phone with you, turn it off or ensure that it is on silent, and if you must check it, step outside the courtroom to do so.
Related: What are your rights if the police stop you?
#3. Interrupt Anyone
Never interrupt anyone who is speaking in court, even if you are on the witness stand. Let your attorney make objections if necessary.
#4. Lie or Exaggerate
You only have one shot to prove your credibility to the judge, and if you lie or exaggerate anything, you’ve ruined it.
Related: Can you lie to the police?
#5. Volunteer Extra Information
Don’t volunteer any extra information when you’re being questioned. Give the simplest, shortest answer possible to any questions that anyone – including the judge – asks you.
#6. Become Visibly Angry
Hold your emotions in check while you’re in court. Even if you’re extremely angry, don’t let it show in the courtroom. Doing so could irreparably damage your case.
Related: What happens if you fail to appear in court in Wisconsin?
#7. Swear
Never, ever swear in the courtroom (unless you are asked to repeat something you heard word-for-word, and even then, it’s okay to avoid swearing).
Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About How to Act in Court?
If you’re not sure how to act in court, or if you have questions about specific circumstances related to your own criminal case, you should talk to your attorney. If you’ve been accused of a crime, we may be able to help you and prepare you for your court appearance. Call our office at 414-383-6700 or get in touch with us online to schedule a free consultation today.