Judges are people too. And they have a difficult job, especially in New Jersey Family Court.
A judge has to listen to testimony, review evidence, evaluate credibility, and ultimately try to figure out who is telling the truth and what actually happened.
Anything going on in the courtroom that distracts the judge from that difficult and important job can become a problem. And the last thing you want to do during your NJ divorce case is unnecessarily irritate the person who may be deciding some very important issues affecting your life.
So, here are seven things you should avoid doing in divorce court.
1. Don't Talk While Court Is in Session
If you're sitting in the courtroom waiting for your case to be called, don't have conversations while the judge is hearing another case.
Even whispering can be distracting in a quiet courtroom. If you absolutely need to speak with your lawyer or someone else, wait until you can do so without disrupting the proceedings.
2. Don't Sit There Using Your Phone
Don't text, scroll through social media, answer emails, or otherwise sit there absorbed in your phone while court is in session.
There may be legitimate reasons to use an electronic device, particularly if your lawyer needs something for your case, but follow your attorney's instructions and the rules of that particular courtroom.
3. Don't Bring Something to Read
Court is not the place to catch up on a book, magazine, or anything else you're reading.
Even if your case hasn't been called yet, pay attention to what's happening around you and show respect for the Court.
4. Don't Wear Headphones
Don't sit in the courtroom listening to music, a podcast, or anything else through headphones.
You need to be able to hear what's happening, particularly when your case is called.
5. Don't Eat in the Courtroom
Unless you've been given permission or have a legitimate medical need, don't bring out food or snacks while court is in session.
Save it for outside the courtroom.
6. Be Careful About Drinks
Courtrooms may have their own rules regarding beverages. Don't assume you can bring coffee, soda, or another drink inside simply because you're going to be there for a while.
Follow the courthouse rules and your lawyer's instructions.
7. Don't Make a Grand Entrance
If you enter a courtroom while the judge is already on the bench, do it quietly.
Open and close the door carefully, silence your phone beforehand, find your seat, and try to create as little distraction as possible.
How You Behave in NJ Divorce Court Matters
None of these things will determine the outcome of your divorce by themselves. But your behavior in court matters.
You want the judge focused on the facts, evidence, and legal issues in your case, not on your phone ringing, your conversation in the back of the courtroom, or some other unnecessary distraction.
Be respectful. Pay attention. Follow the courtroom rules. And when in doubt, ask your divorce lawyer what is expected of you before you walk into court. It's simple advice, but you'd be surprised how many people don't follow it.
Knowing what to expect in court is only one part of preparing for a divorce.
My free Divorce Smarter Course walks you through the things you should know before and during a New Jersey divorce so you can make better decisions about your children, your finances, and your future.
Until next time,
Steve