“Appearing in court on time every time you are scheduled should be the number one priority after being released from jail in Connecticut.”

After an arrest, a court date is scheduled. Whether a defendant was released on a bail bond or on a promise to appear, they must attend all scheduled court hearings. All arrangements for transportation, work, or babysitting should be made in advance to ensure nothing stands in the way of attending court hearings in Connecticut. If you are unsure about the superior court location you should attend, here is a list of all CT courthouses.

Attending court hearings is the most important step to keep your freedom. How you present yourself at your court date may give the judge the wrong impression. In this post, we aim to share some real tips for those with a current pending case.

Common questions about attending court hearings throughout Connecticut:

• How should I dress for a court date?
• Would I be asked to leave if I’m not dressed correctly?
• Is there a dress code to enter a local courthouse in Connecticut?
• Can I be arrested for disrupting the court?

1. What do people wear when appearing in court?

As a bail bond agency, we have seen it all. It’s surprising to see that many individuals don’t take this concern seriously. People in general stand in front of the Judge in sweatpants, leggings, sweaters, sneakers, and sandals, and I may have even seen one or two in pajamas, says bail bondsman Tom. Hoodies and ripped pants are not the best ideas.

How you dress for court matters. Defendants don’t have to dress up like attorneys, but dressing decently can have a positive effect. Dress to be respected. Ensure that when a judge addresses your case, they observe a well-dressed individual trying to make things right. Court hearings happen every day; it’s up to you to give a good impression. 

2. What is the dress code for attending Connecticut court hearings?

Attending a Connecticut court hearing is one of the most important steps when facing criminal charges. The accused should care about the impression they give while in court. Casual dressing for an office setting can be a win-win. Wearing a shirt and tie may be appropriate, even though you could be overdoing it. Wear dress pants with a nice shirt and shoes instead of sneakers.

For female defendants, avoiding the super casual look is essential. Keep it serious, not entertaining. Minimize skin exposure. Makeup is always a personal choice. Additionally, be on time, listen, don’t interrupt, and be respectful. All these things may affect the Judge’s impression of who you are during court hearings.

6 Tips to Keep in Mind When Attending Court: Etiquette and Conduct

Avoid a loud voice and don’t be obnoxious.

Respectfully greet the marshals and clerks, even if you know them. Remember, you are entering a legal institution where they hear cases on the docket and acquit or prosecute individuals accused of a crime. If you walk in disruptively, they have the right to walk you out. It’s a courthouse, not a clubhouse.

Don’t interrupt when someone is talking.

Don’t interrupt the Judge when he or she is addressing you. You will have a turn to be heard, so please be patient. When people interrupt or cannot follow directions because of their emotions, they could be thrown out of the building. If you become disrespectful while inside a courthouse, things can take a negative turn quickly.

Don’t get into heated conversations with others in the courthouse.

There is a time and place to have conversations. The inside of a courthouse is not adequate when disagreeing. If things are getting out of control, walk away. Take your discussion outside. People disagree quite frequently, but holding your emotions can save you bail money.

Don’t let emotions rule in a courthouse.

When emotions run high, you could face consequences. You could be held in “contempt of court”. Bail agents see this at least a few times throughout the year. This also applies to those in the process of posting bail to be released.

Don’t be late.

Being late can get you in trouble. When you are late to a court hearing, you show a lack of responsibility.  In some cases, the court may have closed early, and you could have a failure to appear warrant. Arrive before your scheduled time to have enough time to get familiar with the courtroom.

Turn off your cell phone or place it in silent mode.

Many marshals will confiscate cell phones being used in the courtroom, or worse, they will eject the offending party. Cell phones should never be used in the courtroom. Take your phone calls to the lobby area.