Tips to Help Prepare for Your Day in Court

Your court day has been set and is coming up soon. For most people, the idea of going to court is unfamiliar and can even be a bit scary. You will be seen by different people, from the judge to attorneys, to witnesses, both regular and expert, to others allowed to observe in the courtroom. In most instances, you will be required to testify, which means spending time on the witness stand where you will be seen and heard by all present. In particular, the judge will be watching you and listening to your every word. The opposing counsel’s attorney will be asking you questions, as well as your attorney, and often these questions will be upsetting and cause emotional stress. Is there anything you can do to prepare for your court day? Yes, and here are some suggestions:

·       Let your attorney know how you feel and the level of your concern. Most attorneys realize the pre-court jitters and will help to reassure you as to what to expect. You will usually have at least one (sometimes more) practice session with your attorney to go over the questions your attorney will ask and to give you a sample of what kind of questions the opposing attorney might ask. You will be given a chance to answer the questions in the practice session, and your attorney can guide you on how your answers should go. There will likely be surprise questions on the actual court day, but having some practice will help you think better when the surprises come.

·       What to wear is a big concern as most courtrooms have regulations such as no shorts or flip-flop shoes. Be sure to ask your attorney what the proper dress code for both men and women is. Taking into consideration the dress code, pick clothes that are colorful but not too bright. A somber outfit speaks of depression and may make it look as if you are not in control of your emotions. It is best not to try to “wow” a judge with your beauty or muscular prowess by showing off by wearing spectacular clothing. A basic suit or sports coat with a clean shirt and tie works well for men, and women do well in a medium-length skirt and blouse or dress. Flat shoes or small heels are easier to walk in and look better. Extras such as bright nail polish, excessive jewelry (that goes for men, too), fancy belts, and expensive watches may actually give a judge the thought you are overconfident and perhaps need a little put-down. Remember, judges, are people just like you and will have their own set of prejudices and principles. You want the judge to focus on what you say, not how you look.

·       Another concern for your court day is how you will handle yourself emotionally. A lot of “dirty laundry” and hoped-for outcomes will be exposed, and you don’t want to fall apart emotionally. Often testimony from the other party is not the truth and is designed to hurt you. Also, no one gets all they had hoped for. Things like this can make keeping yourself emotionally calm seem almost impossible. Some people ask their doctor to prescribe a medication that can help them stay calm. Others will use prayer, deep breathing, and meditation to stay calm. Whatever works best for you is something you want to consider before the actual court day. You will have time when your court day is over to fall apart, if necessary, out of sight of the judge and others in the courtroom,

·       If minor children are a part of the court proceedings outcome, make sure they are being cared for by a loving and supporting caregiver. If children are in school, make sure someone will be there when they get home, as court hearings frequently go over the allotted time and may not end in time to be home when the children get there. Preparing them emotionally for possible outcomes (depending on their age) should also be a part of your preparation for your court day.

·       If you have never been in a courtroom, take a trip to the courthouse and ask to look into one of the courtrooms. This will give you a visual idea of where you will be on your day in court.

·       Have someone drive you to your court day and take you home. Most people are not in a safe state of mind to be driving. It is also helpful to have a supportive person available for reassurance before and consolation after.

Going to court is rarely an easy or happy experience. Often, however, your court day is something that you are looking forward to so you can get on with your life and know what financial assets and liabilities you will be taking with you. Take time to prepare yourself for your court day, and you will find it's not an experience you are unable to handle.

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