A court hearing involves a judge, opposing party, and court etiquette. Expectations vary depending on location and purpose. Multiple hearings may be scheduled, and behavior must follow the judge’s commands. A verdict is not typically given, but issues and information can be addressed. Civil cases may determine future court appearances and encourage early settlement.
If you have an upcoming hearing, you can expect a judge or magistrate and the opposing party to be present. You will have to behave with court etiquette. Don’t make hard commitments because your matter may not be dealt with as quickly as you think. Don’t worry about a verdict because guilt or innocence isn’t generally determined at this point.
A court hearing is a formal part of the legal procedure in both criminal and civil cases. There are different types of hearings and they can vary from one judicial system to another. This means that your expectations should vary depending on your location and the purpose of the gathering. However, there are some common features of these proceedings.
For example, you can generally expect a judge or magistrate to be present. If you have already secured legal representation, you can expect your lawyer to be present. In criminal cases, the prosecutor should be at the hearing. In civil cases, the counterparty and its legal representative will also be present.
It is common for courts to schedule several hearings for the same day and time. Obviously everyone’s case cannot be handled at the same time. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that because you’ve been ordered to report at 9am, you’ll be attended to promptly. It is possible that you could spend a whole day waiting your turn.
You can also expect to be bound by the etiquette that normally dictates behavior in the classroom. You have to follow the commands of the judge or magistrate. If you’re told to stand up or stop talking, you must. Keep in mind that you can be found in contempt of court for conduct during your hearing and that a law officer is usually present to ensure that order is maintained.
Usually, a court hearing is an opportunity to address an issue or to communicate information between the parties involved. If, for example, you have criminal charges and your lawyer has found some reason why they should be dropped, he can file a motion to dismiss and the judge can decide whether or not to move forward with the case. What you shouldn’t expect, however, is for a verdict to be handed down in a hearing. At your preliminary hearing, you should be ready to file a plea.
In civil cases, determinations may be made about how future court appearances will proceed. For example, some evidence may be held inadmissible before trial. Don’t be shocked if you are encouraged to settle the case early.
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