Rules of Attire and Conduct for JP 1 Courtroom

ALL PERSONS present in the Courtroom shall be neatly dressed in a manner that shows dignity and respect for the Court.

1. Unacceptable attire includes:

Shorts, baggy pants, oversize coats or jackets, flip flop style shoes, hats, cropped shirts, muscle shirts, clothing indicating gang affiliation, clothing with pictures of: offensive, vulgar, racist, sexist, obscene, suggestive words, slogans, depictions or grotesque creatures or provocative clothing designed to provoke emotion or disrupt or distract.

2. Courtroom Conduct

Conduct in the “Courtroom” also includes the reception/foyer area, jury room and/or any office space assigned to the Justice Court.

1. ALL WEAPONS are PROHIBITED in the Courtroom and this building EXCEPT for LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL.
2. Be on time.
3. Absolutely no cell phones, laptops or tablets on in the courtroom. Pagers are allowed on silent mode.
4. Adhere to the bailiff instructions.
5. Do not approach the Judge’s bench without permission.
6. Address the court as “Judge” or “Your Honor.” Do not argue with the court.
7. Address opposing parties, counsel, witnesses and court officers as “Mr.”, “Mrs.”, “Miss”, “Dr.”, etc. Do not use first names, except with children 14 years of age and younger.
8. Racist, sexist, obscene, or profane language is prohibited unless it is pertinent to a case, and is elicited and quoted from facts in the case.
9. Do not chew gum in the Courtroom or bring drinks or food items into the Courtroom.
10. Do not enter or depart the Courtroom excessively and do not slam the doors.
11. Do nothing to disturb or distract the court, counsels, witnesses or other court personnel.
12. All property in the Courtroom and reception area must be treated with respect. No writing on any papers posted or furniture.
13. No recording devices are allowed without judicial approval.
14. Respect court personnel at all times.

PRO SE parties (individuals representing themselves without an attorney) should be prepared to present their cases in a proper and orderly manner. It is not the court’s duty to represent you nor instruct you on how to prove your case. You may contact Texas Legal Aid or the Travis County Law Library for legal assistance.