Courtroom etiquette refers to how to dress and behave while in the courthouse whether you are a participant, a witness, a juror, or a spectator.
Along with the etiquette information provided by Oregon Judicial Department, please remember the following:
The Oregon State Court System has many different participants. Case participants are called by many different names. Names such as victim, witness, juror, or defendant may be familiar to you. Names such as plaintiff, petitioner, or respondent may be new to you.
The information and resources on this webpage will assist you in navigating the court as a case participant.
How to Act In Court
The courthouse is a public place of respect and safety. Respect the judge, court staff, and everyone in the courtroom, including jurors, witnesses, and the public. Specific rules can be found in the Uniform Trial Court Rule Chapter 3.
How to Dress in Court
Case participants should wear clothes that are clean. Clothing should not display foul language, insults or other negative words.
Uniform Trial Court Rule 3.010:
- All persons attending the court must be dressed so as not to detract from the dignity of court. Members of the public not dressed in accordance with this rule may be removed from the courtroom.
- When appearing in court, all attorneys and court officials must wear appropriate attire.
What NOT to wear or bring to the court
- Weapons – not allowed in the courthouse or court facilities
- Caps and hats – must be removed upon entering the courtroom
- Non-service animals
- Bare feet – Shoes are required
- Revealing or abbreviated clothing such as shorts, tank or cropped tops – Shirts are required
- Strong perfume or cologne
- Food or drink
Jurors
Please dress comfortably (suits and ties or dresses are not required) but also have respect for the important role you have as a juror. As a juror you are the judge of the facts, you should dress like you are doing serious business.
The temperature can change quite a bit from one room to another. You will be more comfortable if you dress in layers so that you can put on or take off a sweater or jacket as you go through the day.
Jurors often spend many hours together in close quarters. Jurors should be respectful of their fellow jurors by reporting for service in clean clothes and without strong perfume or cologne.