Understanding Respect in the Courtroom
When and how should you address the court? I’m Tulsa criminal lawyer Carl Birkhead with Wirth Law Office in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I’ve been practicing family and criminal law for about seven years now, and I want to help you make law easy by talking about what to do when you’re in court.
I find myself making more videos like this because I continue to see courtroom behavior that serves as a cautionary tale. Today was no exception. While waiting to address the judge about the case citations I was handling, I observed a gentleman in court with a long history of citations dating back to 2020 or 2021.
Recognizing Courtroom Etiquette
Despite numerous cases, he had only appeared before the judge a couple of times. Given the backlog, the judge set a new court date, instructing him to return in a few months with legal representation to either enter a plea or set the matter for trial. Courts are eager to clear their dockets efficiently, particularly in high-volume courthouses.
However, the defendant was visibly frustrated. Instead of acknowledging the judge’s directive, he repeatedly objected—interrupting with, Bro, why do I have to get a lawyer? I’ve been in jail, paying money to get out, and this is my first time here! Let me be clear: If you want to find yourself back in jail quickly, addressing the judge as “bro” is a sure way to do it.
The Importance of Respecting the Court
I cannot emphasize this enough—respect in the courtroom is not optional. Address the judge properly, remain professional, and follow court instructions. Your case—and your freedom—may depend on it. Even if you don’t respect the judge as a person, I don’t think that this gentleman did. For whatever reason, he didn’t like what the judge was saying and he didn’t feel like he was getting respect from the judge, so he didn’t show respect to the judge.
It doesn’t matter how you feel you’re being treated. You may not always respect the individual sitting on the bench, but you must respect the authority they represent. In the courtroom, the judge holds the power to decide your case—and in some situations, to send you back to jail. Disrespecting the court is a mistake you can’t afford to make.
Properly Addressing the Judge
Always address the judge properly: Yes, your honor. No, your honor. I understand, your honor. If necessary, yes, judge, or no, judge is acceptable, but avoid casual terms like sir or ma’am. A judge is more than just a person in the room—they are the head of the court, and they expect to be addressed accordingly.
Even if you don’t feel respected, showing proper courtroom etiquette can take you much further in the legal process. If you’re unsure how to navigate speaking in court, don’t take chances—hire an attorney to do it for you. If you expect to be in front of a judge soon and need guidance, give us a call.
Start with a Low-Cost Initial Strategy Session
I’m more than happy to sit down and talk with you. I’ll go over there with you. We’ll handle this together. I’m Tulsa defense attorney Carl Birkhead with Wirth Law Office, and I want to help you make law easy. Call us at 918-879-1681 for a low-cost initial strategy session.
