- Arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled court appearance. Allow time for traffic and/or parking delays.
- Wear appropriate clothing to court. Business attire is recommended. Many judges have strict rules prohibiting such clothing as shorts, tank tops and novelty T-shirts.
- Avoid distracting habits such as chewing gum.
- Before testifying, try to recall information accurately in your mind.
- Be truthful and answer questions to the best of your memory. Do not exaggerate.
- Stop speaking immediately if the judge interrupts you or an attorney makes an objection.
- Speak in a clear, loud voice that can be easily heard by the judge, attorneys, jury and court reporter. Nodding your head is insufficient. You must articulate your response for the court record.
- Listen carefully and answer only the question that is asked of you. Do not volunteer additional information.
- Do not give conclusions or opinions unless asked to do so.
- Notify your case prosecutor or victim-witness counselor immediately if you change your address or phone number. Call (504) 822-2414 to reach OPDA personnel.