If you are in court today

• Remember to sign in, so that the court knows you are there.
• If you have any questions, the usher or court clerk is a good person to ask.
• While you are waiting to go in, is a good time to see if you can come to an agreement with the people on the other side in your case. Lots of people feel very uncomfortable about talking to their opponent in the case at this stage, but if you can get an agreement you are happy with now it is a good idea. Even if you are able to agree some things this will help you work out the main areas of disagreement.  
• If you haven’t already prepared a list of the most important points you want to make, do it now.
• When it’s time to go in, remember to switch off your phone. 

What to wear to court

•  Wear something clean, smart and comfortable. You do not need special clothes or a suit. 
• Smart shoes are best if you have them. Avoid trainers or flip flops if you have another option (unless because of a health condition). 
• Remove hats and sunglasses before entering the courtroom, unless you wear them for medical or religious reasons. 

When you go into the courtroom

• Don’t worry about where to sit. Sometimes a court clerk or usher will take you into the court and show you where to go. If they don’t, just go and sit at the front. If you are in court for a family matter, your ex will sit on the other side of the room.  
• Don’t worry about what to call the judge - sir or madam is fine or simply 'judge'. The most important thing is to always be polite. If they want you to call them something particular, they will tell you.
• When it is your turn to speak or when the judge comes in, stand up - the judge will let you know if you don’t need to.
• Stay polite and as calm as possible.
• Don’t try to use legal language - just speak clearly and slowly.
• When there is something you disagree with, don’t interrupt. Just show the judge that you have something to say by raising your hand, and wait.
• When you speak, speak to the judge rather than the person on the other side in the case. 

When the judge asks you questions:

• listen carefully,
• if you don’t understand, say so,
• be polite,
• try to give brief, to-the-point answers.

Take your time

• It is OK to ask for time if you need it. For example, if you have been given new information or are being asked to make an important decision. 
• You can ask for a question to be repeated if you did not understand it. 
• If you are becoming overwhelmed, tell the judge or tribunal. They may be able to give you a short break. 
• Before you leave, make a note of anything the judge or tribunal says you need to do next, including any dates or deadlines. 

If you are giving evidence or asking questions

•  If you are giving evidence, make sure you are familiar with your statement and the important points in it.
•  If you are asking a witness questions, prepare your questions beforehand and keep them focused on the points that are important to your case.
• When you are asked a question, listen carefully and answer the question you have been asked. If you don’t understand it, say so. 
• You may be asked difficult or challenging questions by the other side. Try to stay calm and remember that they are testing your evidence rather than attacking you personally.