What are the Do’s and Don’ts of Divorce Court Etiquette?

August 7th, 2024 by Tiffany Hughes

Navigating divorce in Illinois can be emotionally and mentally taxing. When it comes to appearing in divorce court, understanding proper court etiquette is crucial. Your behavior and demeanor can significantly impact the outcome of your case, as well as your first impressions with a Judge and how you are perceived by the Judge and other parties involved. In this blog post, we’ll outline the do’s and don’ts of divorce court etiquette to help you present yourself in the best possible light during this challenging time.

What are the Do’s of Divorce Court Etiquette?

1. Dressing Appropriately in Court

As previously discussed in our blog post “What to Wear to Court for Divorce,” dressing appropriately in Court by dressing professionally and respectfully is essential. Your attire should convey respect for the court and the legal process.

2. Be Punctual for Court

Arrive at court early to allow yourself ample time to find parking, go through security, and locate the correct courtroom. Punctuality demonstrates respect for the divorce court and the legal proceedings.

3. Show Respect to Everyone

Treat everyone in divorce court with courtesy and respect, including the judge, court staff, your ex-spouse, and their attorney. Avoid making negative comments or displaying hostile behavior during legal proceedings.

4. Be Honest and Transparent

Always be truthful when providing information to the court. Honesty is crucial in divorce legal proceedings, and any attempts to deceive the court could have serious legal consequences.

5. Listen Carefully

Pay close attention to the proceedings and listen carefully to what is being said. This shows the judge that you are taking the process seriously and are fully engaged in the proceedings.

6. Follow Court Orders, Court Rules and Court Procedures in Illinois

Adhere to all court orders, rules and procedures, including when to appear, whether to appear in person or virtually, when to speak, when to stand, and when to sit. If you are unsure about anything, ask your attorney for guidance on the proper court etiquette.

What are the Don’ts of Divorce Court Etiquette?

1. Don’t Interrupt

Avoid interrupting the judge, your ex-spouse, or their attorney. Wait for your turn to speak and always address the judge as “Judge” or “Your Honor.”

2. Don’t Display Negative Emotions

While it’s natural to feel emotional during divorce legal proceedings, try to remain composed and avoid displaying anger, frustration, or hostility in the courtroom.

3. Don’t Bring Children or Other Uninvited Guests

Unless they are directly involved in the case and required to appear, do not bring children or other uninvited guests to court. Divorce in Illinois is a formal legal proceeding, but it is also complicated and emotionally taxing. Children should be protected from it and guests who may become distractions should be minimized.

4. Don’t Use Your Phone

Turn off or silence your phone before entering the courtroom. Phone usage in court during legal proceedings is disrespectful and could result in sanctions from the court.

5. Don’t Speak Disrespectfully About Your Ex-Spouse

Refrain from making negative or derogatory comments about your ex-spouse in divorce court. Disparaging your ex-spouse can reflect poorly on you and may not be looked upon favorably by the judge.

6. Don’t Discuss the Case Outside of Court

Avoid discussing the details of your case with anyone other than your attorney including and especially speaking to children about legal proceedings or with the judge outside of court without your attorney present.

Proper court etiquette is essential when appearing in divorce court. By following these do’s and don’ts of divorce court etiquette, you can present yourself in a respectful and professional manner, which can positively impact the outcome of your case. Remember, divorce in Illinois is a formal legal proceeding, and your behavior and demeanor should reflect the seriousness and gravity of the situation. Consulting with your attorney and adhering to these guidelines can help you navigate divorce court more effectively and ensure that your interests are protected during this challenging time.

Need More Information or Representation?

If you are filing for a divorce in Illinois and want to know the do’s and don’ts of divorce court etiquette, give The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. a call today at 773-893-0228 for a confidential, complimentary 30-minute phone consultation or email Tiffany Hughes directly at Tiffanyhughes@thugheslaw.com. Our entire practice is solely dedicated to the area of family law. We are highly experienced in providing legal representation to anyone who is filing for a divorce in Illinois and will assist our clients in divorce court procedures in Illinois, including but not limited to explaining the importance of following court orders, proper court etiquette, do’s and don’ts of divorce court etiquette, first impressions with a Judge, dressing appropriately in court, phone usage in court, and all aspects of legal proceedings for divorce in Illinois.

About Tiffany M. Hughes, Divorce Attorney, Principal, Managing Partner, The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C.:

Tiffany M. Hughes is a divorce attorney and Managing Partner of The Law office of Tiffany M. Hughes. Recognized as a Top 100 Lawyer in Lawyers Magazine in 2018 and 2019, Super Lawyer from 2016 to date, and in addition to numerous other accolades, Ms. Hughes represents individuals in all aspects of family and matrimonial law proceedings, including litigation, mediation, allocation of parental responsibility (formerly known as custody), parentage, divorce and other child-related matters.

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This blog is made available by The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of Illinois law, not to provide specific legal advice. By using this website you understand that there is no attorney client relationship between you and The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. The website should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in Illinois.  The law changes constantly and we do not go back in time to edit old posts that may be affected by these changes.  If you have any questions about Illinois law, which is the only State this blog and website discusses, please call The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. for a complimentary phone consultation and do not draw any legal conclusions without speaking to a competent attorney in Illinois first.