What To Expect When Going To Court

This video is made in A Levels Academy Islamabad.

Transcript

00:00So, you're on your way to court, for whatever the reason may be.

00:05Don't worry, we're not the judge.

00:07We're just here to tell you what to actually expect when going to court, courtesy of LegalYou.

00:13Before you're questioned, you may have some questions of your own.

00:17Like, is it okay to bring a bottle of water in?

00:20How about food?

00:22What absolutely should not be in my pockets?

00:25Is it better to not have pockets?

00:27How long am I going to have to wait?

00:29In short, what are the practical things you need to know for your first day in court?

00:34First things first.

00:35Here's a basic rundown of what to expect when you enter the Halls of Justice.

00:42Sorry, allergies.

00:45Anyway, you walk in and there will be a screening station of some kind.

00:49Like at the airport, sort of.

00:52This is where court security officers will stop you and check the contents of your purse, briefcase, or whatever bag you decide to use.

00:59Most often, they will run the contents through an x-ray machine, while you walk through a metal detector.

01:05Under no circumstances should you bring a weapon into court of any kind.

01:10There is no video or audio recording devices allowed, and no photography.

01:15That's why in federal court you can't bring a cell phone, because of the camera.

01:20However, in state court you can.

01:22But in both courts, no food or drink is allowed, although you generally can bring in a bottle of water.

01:28Anything that will disrupt the court proceedings is also prohibited.

01:32Think things out long beforehand.

01:34If you bring something that won't be allowed in, there isn't some storage space to keep it.

01:38Even though you might have to wait for a while before your case is called, do not be late.

01:43If for some crazy reason you are late, then make sure to call the judge's assistant to let them know.

01:49It is also polite to call the person on the other side, or their attorney.

01:53This doesn't mean it will be excused, but it can only help your cause.

01:58Once you arrive, make sure you head to the right courtroom, look for signs, or ask the deputy running security.

02:04When there, wait patiently for your case to be called.

02:07Don't be disruptive or disrespectful.

02:10Once it's your time in front of the judge, follow as instructed, and proceed with the case at hand.

02:16Just remember, as a taxpayer and citizen, the courts are part of your government, and they are there to help you resolve problems.

02:23Don't be afraid to use them.

02:25You can do this.