How to Survive a Court Hearing

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Whatever the crime

   Immediately on arrest, police are required to read your Miranda rights, and inform you about your right to remain silent until consultation with a lawyer.
   
   If you are not told your rights, or can't understand them, tell police.
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   Step 2: always ask to speak to a lawyer before answering or speaking to police.

   They will need to know everything in order to defend you effectively. , Dress up in a business like manner, you're not going to a party.
   
   Eat a good breakfast (not too much or little), and gather up all your papers.
   
   Don't forget anything, because that might postpone your case and anger the judge.
   
   If you are religious, you can pray or something, if that makes you feel better, or you can just hope for the best and then leave.
   
   Try to calm down. , Rushing will only stress you out more.
   
   Again, you should wake up early enough not to have to rush.
   
   The ideal scenario would be getting there with a few minutes to get yourself together. , You might want to bring a book, or you could read your case papers (might help you prepare for your case). , Speak loudly and clearly, and only if you are spoken to. , The prosecutor will fling questions at you and will probably attempt to twist what you say.
   
   They aren't doing this to be mean, they're just exploring what you say from either side.
   
   Your lawyer is allowed to object to any questions (hence the term "objection!" ) but the judge might overrule this. , You could also eat a snack if you've got one, and it's highly suggested that you bring one.
   
   Use this time to consult with your lawyer and catch your breath. ,,
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   Step 3: Don't withhold any information from your lawyer.

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   Step 4: When the court day comes

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   Step 5: be prepared.

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   Step 6: Get there in a calm manner.

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   Step 7: When you get there

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   Step 8: check in and wait patiently for your case.

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   Step 9: Once you get in

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    Step 10: obey the judge and address him as "Your honor."

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    Step 11: If you are called up on the witness stand

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    Step 12: be ready.

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    Step 13: During the recess period

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    Step 14: go to to the bathroom

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    Step 15: and/or drink some water.

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    Step 16: When you go back in

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    Step 17: prepare your arguments wisely

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    Step 18: because for misdemeanors

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    Step 19: this might be the last chance you have to get the sympathy of the jury

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    Step 20: and for felonies

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    Step 21: a last chance before they go home for deliberation.

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    Step 22: Be prepared for an immediate verdict

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    Step 23: if there is one.

Detailed Guide

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