How to Prepare for Court in North Carolina

Picture this: You’re strolling along the beach in Wilmington, North Carolina, flip-flops slapping against your heels, the salty breeze tousling your hair. Now imagine walking into a courtroom the same way. Sounds ridiculous, right? But you’d be surprised how many folks don’t quite grasp the gravity of a court appearance. Whether you’re in Winston-Salem, Wilmington, or Wilkes County, court decorum matters. Let’s dive into how to prepare for court in North Carolina so you can avoid looking like you took a wrong turn on your way to the beach.

Dressing the Part: More “Suits,” Less “Jersey Shore”

When it comes to courtroom attire, think “business professional” not “casual Friday.” For the gentlemen, this means a suit or at least dress pants with a button-down shirt. Ladies, opt for a conservative dress, pantsuit, or skirt-and-blouse combo. The goal is to look like you’re there to handle serious business, not audition for a reality TV show.

Stick to neutral colors: navy, black, gray – these are your friends. Leave the neon pink tie or leopard print blazer for your next night out in downtown Greensboro. And whatever you do, avoid clothing with slogans or graphics. The only statement you should be making is “I respect this court.”

Behavior: It’s Not What You Say, It’s How You Say It (Actually, It’s Both)

Once you’ve nailed the look, it’s time to act the part. Here’s a pro tip: the judge is the most important person in the room. Address them as “Your Honor,” stand when they enter or leave, and never, ever interrupt them. It’s not a casual chat at your local Starbucks on Lake Norman—this is a formal legal proceeding.

Speaking of interruptions, save your commentary for your attorney after you’ve left the courthouse. Outbursts, eye-rolling, or muttering under your breath are big no-nos. The court reporter isn’t there to capture your colorful asides, no matter how clever you think they are, and the jury and judge will not be impressed by your quick wit.

Be Prepared: This Isn’t a Pop Quiz

Remember in school when you’d show up unprepared and hope the teacher didn’t call on you? Yeah, that doesn’t fly in court. Arrive early, bring all necessary documents, and have a pen and paper ready. Being prepared shows respect for the court’s time and, more importantly, for your own case.

Your Phone Isn’t Your Plus-One

We get it. Your phone is practically an extension of your hand. But in court, it needs to take a backseat – actually, it needs to be completely off and out of sight. In many North Carolina courthouses, non-lawyers may not bring their phone with them whatsoever.

Breaking the Rules: More Than Just a Stern Look

Violating court decorum isn’t just embarrassing – it can have serious consequences. Judges have the power to hold you in contempt, which can mean fines or even jail time. Plus, if you’re there for your own case, poor behavior can influence how the judge and jury perceive you and your claims.

Wrapping It Up

At the end of the day, court decorum boils down to one thing: respect. Respect for the court, for the legal process, and for yourself. Whether you’re in a small district courtroom in Caswell County or the federal courthouse in Charlotte, the principles remain the same. Dress appropriately, behave respectfully, be prepared, and leave the distractions at home.

Remember, you’re not heading to a backyard barbecue in Stokes County – you’re participating in a crucial part of our justice system. Treat it with the gravity it deserves, and you’ll be well on your way to presenting yourself in the best possible light. And who knows? That might just make all the difference in your case.