Experience Makes The Difference

Navigating Through Your Courtroom Appearance

On Behalf of | Sep 15, 2016 | Criminal Procedure

If you’ve been arrested and facing criminal charges, you’ll have to make an appearance in criminal court. Because time is limited during a courtroom appearance, it’s imperative that you prepare adequately to ensure you make the most of the time you are given. In this blog, our Dallas criminal defense attorney shares a few tips on how to prepare for an upcoming courtroom appearance.

Be Punctual

You want to show your lawyer, the judge, and the jury that you value their time as much as they value yours. Showing up late or not showing up at all shows a lack of respect. You should plan on arriving to your appearance a few minutes early to go over any last minute details with your attorney.

Dress to Impress

Think of your court appearance as a business interview – you want to dress in a way that is professional and appropriate. Because you are the defendant, the chances of you being given the opportunity to speak
or explain your charge is very slim. How you dress is the only impression you will give to the judge, opposing counsel, and jury.

Think Before Speaking

While you may see this as an opportunity to declare your innocence, it’s important that you let your attorney do the talking. If you are asked a question directly by the judge, you should answer in a way that is brief and concise. Before stepping into the courtroom, you should be instructed by your attorney on what to say and when to say it.

Our Dallas criminal defense attorney has more than 25 years of experience aggressively defending the rights of clients facing criminal charges. If you’ve been arrested or are being investigated for a crime, you
should not hesitate to call (214) 307-8667 to request a free consultation.