Courtroom Decorum

Court is in session when docket is scheduled or a hearing is held.  While Court is in session, unless specified within these Rules or the Judge directs otherwise, the following MUST be observed by all persons that enter the courtroom, including but not limited to lawyers, witness, defendants, media and/or spectators:

1. Attire
   All persons present in the courtroom shall be dressed in a manner that shows dignity and respect for the Court. Unacceptable attire includes:
   1. Clothing indicating gang affiliation or other clothing with offensive, vulgar, racist, sexist, obscene, suggestive words, slogans, depictions, or pictures, including grotesque creatures
   2. Hats or caps
   3. Muscle shirts or sleeveless shirts
   4. Provocative clothing designed or styled or worn to provoke emotion of disrupt or distract
   5. Shorts, cut-offs, or baggy pants
   6. Clothing should be neat and clean if at all possible.
2. Weapons
   No weapons are permitted in the courtroom, except those carried or possessed by law enforcement officers
   
   
3. Court Schedules 
   All persons scheduled to appear before the court must appear at the time scheduled. Persons bringing children are to keep children within adult supervision and reasonably quiet so as not to disrupt the business and operations of the municipal court, the judges, the municipal court staff, and court personnel.
   
   
4. Court Protocol
   A. The Judge's bench should not be approached without permission
   B. The court should be addressed as Your Honor or Judge and other individuals addressed respectfully.
   C. Persons addressing the Court will not talk at the same time as the Judge, opposing counsel, or witnesses.
   
   
5. While the court is in session there shall be:
   A. No smoking or use of tobacco products.
   B. No reading of newspapers or magazines.
   C. No propping of feet, sitting or laying on tables, chairs or benches.
   D. No loud noises or talking.
   E. No gum chewing.
   F. No food or beverages.
   G. No gestures, facial expressions, or sounds indicating approval or disapproval.
   H. No backpacks.
   I. No bulky coats.
   J. No electronic devices unless they are turned off.
   K. No cigarette lighters.