"A Good Attitude...A Little Thing That Goes A Long Way"
By the Honorable Robert F. Diaz
03/01/06

By: Judge Robert F. Diaz

"A Good Attitude...A Little Thing That Goes A Long Way"

So you finally made it to the courtroom on time and have spoken with your lawyer. It's time to do something with your case. It is the time for trial, time to continue the case, or it may be a hearing on one part of the case. The important thing is you are going to see the Judge either in the courtroom, or in their chambers (hearing room) to see what to do. The Judge does not know everything about your case because they have a lot of cases, so any impression you make on the Judge is important. Hopefully, you have dressed well for court and are neat and orderly. Any shirts with slogans or bad words would not be good to wear. If you had to come from work or go to work after court, most Judges understand wearing work clothes. Most Judges understand that its not easy to get to court with all the other things going on in your life. This is where attitude comes into play. You are in court either for something you did, or something that happened to you. You could have been in the wrong place at the wrong time, or you have come to the courthouse to resolve a civil matter. For whatever reason you are in court, the Judge expects you to act politely. Most people, including Judges, feel you have to give respect in order to get respect. When you are asked a question, keep in mind a court reporter is usually taking down everything you say. They are making a "record" of what happens in court. Almost like a tape recording, but in print, so they can see what everyone said at a later time if they have to. Therefore, you must answer out loud, and you should not nod your head to indicate your responses. If you say " uh huh" you will be asked to say yes or no. When the Judge asks you a question, don't say "yeah", say "yes". Look the Judge straight in the eyes. Judges must make up their minds about people, but not their cases, in a very short time. Stand up straight, and look like you are very interested in what is going to happen. If you give the Judge respect, you will get respect in return. If you have a question to ask your lawyer, or are getting mad at what your lawyer is saying, ask the Judge to give you a little bit of time to speak with your lawyer in private. Don't make faces or mumble something to your lawyer. Keep the relationship with your lawyer between yourselves. The Judge cannot get involved in problems you have with your lawyer because of attorney-client privilege. Take the time to calmly talk to your lawyer, and then go back in front of the Judge knowing what you are going to do. These things all add up to a good attitude, and hopefully, a good result in your case.