Courts are very formal. When you go to court, it's important to be respectful.
On this page, we've listed some tips to get you prepared for your court date, and to help your day run smoothly.
In court you should:
- make sure you look clean and neat (take off your hat and sunglasses)
- enter and leave the courtroom quietly so you don’t disrupt proceedings
- turn off mobile phones and music players before entering the courtroom
- address the magistrate as 'Your Honour', 'Sir' or 'Madam'
- stand when the magistrate speaks to you.
The following are not permitted in the courtroom:
- talking
- smoking
- eating or chewing gum
- video or other cameras, tape recorders, two-way radios or other electronic equipment.
It’s a good idea to visit the court before your court date so you know what to expect. Cases are usually open to the public. There will be a sign on the door of the courtroom if the court is closed to the public. Watching what happens shows you what the magistrate can say and how the court works.
Because of COVID-19, courts are limiting the number of people who enter court buildings. Therefore, it may not be possible to attend court in person to watch a case. Contact the court before you plan to go. The court will tell you if you can attend. If not, they can help you view a court hearing online instead.
Updated