Role of Attorneys

(a) Officer of Court. The lawyer is an officer of the court and should at all times uphold the honor and maintain the dignity of the profession, maintaining at all times a respectful attitude toward the court. (b) Addressing Court or Jury. Except when making objections, lawyers physically present in the courtroom should rise and remain standing while addressing the court or the jury. In addressing the court, the lawyer should refer to the judge as "Your Honor" or "The Court." Counsel shall not address or refer to jurors individually or by name or occupation, except during voir dire, and shall never use the first name when addressing a juror in voir dire examination. During trial, counsel shall not exhibit familiarity with the judge, jurors, witnesses, parties or other counsel, nor address them by use of first names (except for children). (c) Approaching Bench. The lawyers should address the court from a position at the counsel table. If a lawyer finds it necessary to discuss some question out of the hearing of the jury at the bench, the lawyer may so indicate to the court and, if invited, approach the bench for the purpose indicated. In such an instance, the lawyers should never lean upon the bench nor appear to engage the court in a familiar manner. (d) Non-Discrimination. Lawyers shall treat all parties, participants, other lawyers, and court personnel fairly and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, disability, or age. (e) Attire. Lawyers shall appear in court in appropriate courtroom attire. (Amended effective January 1, 1998; amended effective July 1, 2015; amended effective November 22, 2023.) Advisory Committee Comment - 2023 Amendments