“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” This is especially true when it comes to your first court appearance. Knowing what to expect can reduce stress and anxiety and is an important part of presenting yourself effectively.
Here, Michigan criminal attorney Robert Elmen describes what to expect at your first appearance in court, explains what happens at a court hearing, and gives you court appearance tips.
Going to court can be intimidating, especially if you were charged with a crime. Ideally, you should hire an attorney before your first appearance. Your attorney will explain the criminal process and what to expect, help you prepare for court, and provide professional advice and legal guidance.
If you are facing criminal charges, you should have received a summons with the date, time, and location of your first court appearance. Before your court date, try to familiarize yourself with the location of the courthouse, including how you will get there and the estimated travel time. If possible, go into the courthouse to find the courtroom where your case will be heard.
On the day of your court appearance, plan to arrive early. You will need to go through a security screening and will likely need to pass through a metal detector. Anything you bring with you will be scanned or searched.
In Michigan, you are allowed to bring small, portable electronic devices with you into the building. However, the court can limit how you use your device. You may not be allowed to take photos, video, or audio recordings. Your phone should either be off or on silent mode.
When you arrive at court, find your attorney. Enter the courtroom and check in with the clerk, who may be in the courtroom or a nearby office. Other hearings may be going on, or the attorneys and courtroom personnel may be preparing for the day. Take a seat and observe what people are doing. Where are they standing? How do they talk to the judge? Do they take turns to speak?
If you were charged with a crime, your first appearance in court will likely be an arraignment. This is a short hearing that is the first step in a criminal case. The judge will explain the charges against you, advise you of your constitutional rights, inform you of the penalties you face if you are convicted, and ask how you plead.
When your case is called, you and your attorney will stand at a podium or table to address the court. Let your attorney do most of the talking. If the judge asks you a direct question, be respectful and address the judge as “Your Honor.”
If you have an attorney, you will almost certainly plead Not Guilty. Even in cases where the evidence is beyond dispute, most defendants plead Not Guilty and their lawyer will work to obtain a more favorable result.
The judge and courtroom staff observe professional protocols and expect people who enter the courthouse to follow rules of professional etiquette. Regardless of your circumstances, you will be expected to observe these rules, otherwise you risk hurting your case.
Dress should be professional or semi-professional. Ensure your appearance is neat and clean. Before your court appearance, bathe and groom yourself appropriately. It is wise to remove certain piercings and wear clothes that cover any visible tattoos.
Clothing should be professional and not torn, ripped, too loose, or too tight. Muted colors are generally best. Avoid t-shirts, tank tops, and low-cut clothing. Do not wear ripped jeans, shorts, or clothing that is too revealing. Do not wear a hat. Jewelry and accessories should be kept to a minimum. If you are unsure, it is better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Men should wear a collared, button-down shirt, with or without a tie. A blazer or sportcoat may be appropriate. Choose neutral-colored pants and wear clean, closed-toe shoes.
For women, a conservative top or sweater is suitable paired with dress pants or a conservative skirt, or a conservative dress. Closed-toe shoes are preferred, and avoid stilettos or sandals. Makeup should be minimal and professional.
While you are not required to have a lawyer at your first court appearance or at any time during a criminal case, you will almost certainly benefit from having experienced legal representation.
An attorney can explain the criminal legal process, advise you on how to proceed, advocate for the lowest and least restrictive bond conditions, and handle procedural matters like waiving the formal reading of the charges to expedite matters.
If you were charged with a crime in or around Ann Arbor, having experienced legal representation is crucial. Elmen Legal is an experienced criminal defense law firm with a proven record of success. Founding attorney Robert Elmen was admitted to practice in 2014 and exclusively represents people facing criminal charges in Michigan. He takes a caring and holistic approach to criminal defense and strives to care for his clients as individuals. He will fight to protect your rights and to obtain outstanding results.
If you or someone you care about is facing criminal charges in Michigan, Elmen Legal is here to help. Learn more about me, read reviews from former clients, and get answers to Frequently Answered Questions. Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, we invite you to contact Elmen Legal today by calling (734) 707-8915, or emailing robert@elmenlegal.com.
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