The following is information on appropriate court etiquette in and out of court for victims and witnesses of violent crime:
- Appear and behave professionally. This applies both on the witness stand and off. Obviously this influences the jurors, but you never know who is "sizing you up," for the other side, while you're waiting in the hall or in the restroom.
- Before the trial starts, walk in to the courtroom and familiarize yourself where the witness chair is located and the path you need to take to get to it. This enables you to walk directly to the stand in a forthright and confident manner and be sworn in.
- Men and women should dress in a conservative fashion, if you are a peace officer, your uniform helps your enhance credence. Avoid "harsh" colors, no loud ties, and minimal jewelry. Wear purple to show support for crime victims and crime victim’s rights.
- When you are sworn in, look at the jury and say, in a clear voice, "I do."
- Once you are seated, sit up straight and look at the questioning attorney, when answering make eye contact with the jurors.
- Answer all questions clearly, do not nod. If you nod this will cause the court reporter and the judge to tell you to answer audibly and make it look like you're not sure what you're saying or doing.
- Keep your hands in your lap. Keep them away from your mouth.
- If you need to ask the judge a question, look at the judge and say "Your Honor", and wait till the judge gives you permission before you ask the question.
- Listen very carefully to the question. Make sure you understand it before you answer.
- If either attorney objects stop talking, let the judge rule on the objection and then continue.
- Avoid being combative or argumentative. Let the attorneys get as nasty as they want. They're more than likely trying to "bait you." Don’t let your emotions get the best of you, stay cool and answer the questions honestly and directly.
- If you make a mistake, admit it. Don't try to cover it up. Nobody is going to hold it against you that you made a mistake, but they can and will certainly hold it against you if they think you're lying.
- Never memorize your testimony. It’s okay to have notes, but make sure that you know your facts, but don't try to say things word for word. You will look rehearsed during your testimony and then will not be able to handle cross-examination, where the questions are out of sequence.
- If the other side asks a question that you think is objectionable, pause before answering and give your attorney a chance to object. If he or she doesn't, answer the question. If either attorney objects, stop your answer and wait for the judge to tell you to proceed.
- Avoid looking at your attorney when answering questions. This looks like your asking for help and jurors might interpret this as a damaging question, even though your answer makes perfectly good sense.
- Most important of all, tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Avoid temptation to embellish the truth just a bit.It's not necessary and if you're caught it makes your whole testimony suspect and can allow a violent criminal to walk away free.
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