Rules of Conduct for Counsel While in Trial

The following rules are provided to counsel to follow before trial.  If there are any of these rules to which you object or do not understand, the judge would be glad to discuss them with you with opposing counsel present.

General

• Be on time for court.
• Make brief objections on legal grounds.
• Stand to object or to address the Court.

Your Client

• If your client is in custody at the time of trial, bring appropriate clothes for him to wear to the courtroom, and give them to the bailiff before the trial.
• If you are unable to bring appropriate clothing, please advise the Court no later than 24 hours prior to trial.

Voir Dire

• Challenges for cause will be handled at the end of voir dire by both sides.
• Questionnaires and seating charts will be provided by the Court.

Testimony

• Have your witnesses in attendance at the court and ready to testify when needed.
• Have your witnesses dress appropriately for court.
• Do not point firearms, loaded or unloaded, in the direction of jurors, witnesses, or any other persons in the courtroom.
• Ask permission to approach a witness on the stand.
• Ask permission to approach the court reporter to use an exhibit.

Smart Board

The 396^th District Court uses an electronic Smart Board for the presentation of evidence and demonstration of exhibits by witnesses and lawyers.  Counsel is expected to have knowledge as to how to use the equipment.  The Court is available to provide training to Counsel prior to trial upon timely request.