The guidelines on this page explain what to expect when appearing in this courtroom and how to prepare. Review the information below and follow all instructions to ensure a smooth and respectful court proceeding.
On This Page
General Courtroom Rules
All participants must behave professionally and respectfully toward the judge, court staff, attorneys, witnesses, and other defendants. Follow all courtroom directions and maintain proper decorum at all times.
Attendance & Scheduling
Arrive on time and check in with court staff upon entering the courtroom. If requesting a reset, notify the court coordinator in advance. Cases called when an attorney is absent may be moved to the end of the docket.
| Case Stage | Is the Defendant Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Indictment with attorney | No | Unless the Court orders otherwise. |
| Pre-Indictment without attorney | Yes | - |
| Post-Indictment | Yes | Unless excused by the judge. |
| Jail Cases | Yes | Must appear unless excused by the Court. |
Filing & Forms
File all motions, pleadings, and legal documents with the clerk. Provide courtesy copies to the prosecutor and court coordinator when required. Standard forms, including plea paperwork and waivers, are available in the courtroom or designated location.
Many common forms will be available in the courtroom, including:
- Guilty pleas
- Waivers of jury trial
- Motions for community supervision
Interpreter & Language Services
Notify the court coordinator as soon as possible if an interpreter is needed so arrangements can be made prior to the hearing. Interpreter requests should be submitted as early as possible.
Security, Bail & Bond Procedures
All individuals entering the courtroom are subject to security screening. Personal bond requests must follow Pre-Trial Services procedures. Failure to appear for a scheduled hearing may result in a warrant being issued.
All individuals must pass through security screening when entering the courthouse or courtroom. Arrive early to allow time for screening.
Guilty Pleas & Sentencing
Use approved plea forms and review all documents with the defendant before submission. Notify the probation officer when a plea includes community supervision. The Court may question the defendant to ensure the plea is voluntary and understood.
Use only approved plea forms and review all documents thoroughly with the defendant before court. Ensure all signatures and initials are complete. Notify the probation officer before submitting plea paperwork involving community supervision.
Community Supervision
Counsel must be prepared to address supervision status, pending cases, and relevant information before revocation hearings. Coordinate with the community supervision officer prior to bringing matters before the Court.
Early Discharge Requests
Requests for early discharge follow a scheduled review timeline. Defendants must appear unless excused by counsel. Ensure probation receives all required filings before the hearing.
Jury Trial Settings
Pretrial matters must be resolved before a jury trial setting. Counsel must be prepared for trial and timely file required motions. Continuance requests must be submitted as early as possible and will be considered only for good cause.
Trial Conduct & Procedures for Counsel
Counsel must be prepared, professional, and respectful throughout trial. Have witnesses and exhibits ready, avoid speaking objections, and follow courtroom protocol when addressing the Court and witnesses.
Use voir dire time efficiently. Challenges for cause will be heard after both sides conclude. Do not identify alternates during jury selection.
Expunctions
Expunction hearings are held on designated dates. Attendance may not be required unless the Court indicates otherwise. Approved expunctions will be processed according to Court procedures.
Contact & Schedule Information
Contact the court coordinator for scheduling and procedural questions. Court dockets are held on designated days. Include office hours, contact details, and courtroom location.
