Here are five things all defendants will want to avoid saying to a criminal judge: 'I Did It. ' ... 'They Didn't Tell Me...' ... Expletives. Lies, Lies, Lies. 'I Will Represent Myself.
The Bad Word List, also known as the anti-reptile word list, includes: always, never, must, required, every, any, safety, priority, prevent, and violate, among others. Each word eliminates judgment and circumstances and can trap witnesses.
You typically write a leniency letter after the defendant has been convicted of a crime, but before they are sentenced. This allows the judge to consider the letter in their deliberations, potentially leading to a more lenient sentence for the defendant.
Treat the judge's staff with impeccable courtesy. Be prompt. Be prepared and organized. Nothing irritates a judge as much as a lawyer fumbling for papers. Speak loudly and clearly. Respect any time limits set by the judge. Answer a judge's question directly. Don't evade. If you don't know an answer, say so.
Mercy means compassionate treatment or behavior towards criminal offenders or those in distress, especially in imprisonment. For example, in criminal cases, a plea of the defendant tacitly admits his guilt by throwing himself at the mercy of the court.
Having an Outburst. Judges want their courtrooms to be professional places where justice can be served and laws are upheld. If you have an outburst of any kind, the judge is going to get agitated and/or angry. It's critical to keep your composure in the courtroom — no matter what aggravating factors are at play.
Disrespectful Language: Avoid insults, sarcasm, or any derogatory remarks. Personal Attacks: Never make personal comments about the judge's character or past decisions, such as ``You always rule against people like me.'' Interrupting: Speaking over the judge or interrupting them can be seen as disrespectful.
Tips for Writing a Letter to a Judge: Be Respectful: Use formal language and address the judge appropriately. Be Concise: Keep the letter focused and to the point. Provide Relevant Information: Stick to facts and avoid emotional appeals that lack substance.
Tips For Filling Out Legal Forms Use the most current version of the form. Read the entire form AND any directions that came with it BEFORE filling out the form. Use clear, legible writing. Always use your legal name, current address, daytime telephone number, and a valid e-mail address.
Rule 3.31. Unless otherwise authorized by the court, discovery meet and confer obligations require an in-person, telephonic, or video conference between parties.