Court Etiquette in the Australian Capital Territory

By James Stevens, Director and Solicitor, Go To Court Lawyers. Last reviewed 10 April 2026.

When attending court in the ACT, you will need to follow the required etiquette to show respect for the legal system. If you do not show the appropriate level of respect, the judicial officers may ask you to leave the courts, or in extreme cases, have you charged with contempt of court. This article outlines the rules of court etiquette in the ACT and provides comprehensive guidance for anyone appearing before the Magistrates Court or Supreme Court of the Australian Capital Territory.

Understanding proper courtroom protocol is essential for all participants in the legal process, whether you are a defendant, witness, victim, or observer. The ACT court system operates under strict procedural rules designed to maintain dignity, order, and respect for the administration of justice. Failure to comply with these expectations can result in serious consequences that may impact your case outcome.

Preparing for court in the Australian Capital Territory

Understanding the court system

Many people do not know what to expect when attending court for the first time. To prepare for court in the ACT, there are a number of ways to familiarise yourself with the court system. Firstly, you can read up on the court system by perusing the information on the ACT courts website. Secondly, you can attend a court proceeding to get an idea of what actually happens in the court before attending your own court matter.

The ACT court hierarchy consists of the Magistrates Court, which handles most criminal matters including summary offences and committal proceedings, and the Supreme Court, which deals with serious indictable offences and appeals. Understanding which court will hear your matter is crucial for proper preparation and knowing what level of formality to expect.

Attending court as an observer

All court hearings are open to the public, unless specified otherwise. To find out which hearings are on at any given day, a daily list is provided on the Magistrates Court website and Supreme Court website, or next to the courtrooms. When observing a court proceeding, sit quietly in the public gallery in the back of the courtroom.

Arrival and timing

You should also check the date, time and location of your court proceeding on the Magistrate Court daily lists or the Supreme Court daily lists before arriving. When attending your own court matter, you should arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes earlier than the scheduled time to give yourself enough time to find the right courtroom. You can also bring a family member or friend to support you through the court proceeding. They can sit in the public gallery while your matter proceeds.

Court lists can change throughout the day, so it's important to check for any updates on the morning of your appearance. Late arrival can result in your matter being stood down or, in some cases, a warrant being issued for your arrest if you are a defendant in criminal proceedings.

Dress etiquette for court in the ACT

Importance of appropriate attire

You will need to dress in clean and tidy clothes when attending court in the ACT. What you wear can affect people's impression of you. You should dress to impress as if you are seeing someone who is important. Your appearance demonstrates respect for the court and can positively influence how judicial officers and juries perceive you.

Recommended clothing

You should wear:

• Conservative colours such as dark colours and white;
• A suit;
• Collared button up shirt which is buttoned to an appropriate point;
• Pants or skirt that is no shorter than the knees; and
• Clean, closed-in shoes.

For men, a tie is highly recommended, particularly in the Supreme Court. For women, conservative blouses or jackets paired with dress pants or knee-length skirts are appropriate. Avoid excessive jewelry or accessories that might be distracting.

Inappropriate clothing

You should not wear:

• Sleeveless tops or dresses;
• Anything too revealing;
• Short pants or skirts;
• Open-toed shoes such as thongs or sandals; or
• Sunglasses, hats or caps.

Additionally, avoid clothing with offensive slogans, logos, or images. Torn or excessively casual clothing such as tracksuit pants, hoodies, or sports jerseys are also inappropriate for court appearances.

Entering and exiting the courtroom

When you enter and exit the courtroom in the ACT, you will need to bow to the Coat of Arms behind the judicial officers as a sign of respect. This bow should be a respectful nod of the head rather than a deep bow. The same protocol applies whether the judicial officer is present or not, as you are showing respect to the institution of justice itself.

Remove any headwear before entering the courtroom, and ensure your mobile phone is switched off or on silent mode. Wait for appropriate breaks in proceedings before entering or leaving, and never walk in front of the bar table while court is in session unless specifically directed to do so.

Behaviour in the courtroom

General conduct expectations

You will need to behave appropriately in the courtroom in respect of the court system and its formalities. The courtroom operates under strict protocols designed to maintain order and dignity in legal proceedings.

You should:

• Sit silently unless called upon by the magistrate or judge (judicial officer);
• Follow the judicial officer's instructions;
• Address the judicial officer as 'Your Honour'; and
• Ensure all audio and / or mobile devices are switched off.

Prohibited activities

You should not consumer any food or drink, or record or publish any part of the proceedings. Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited under the Court Procedures Act 2004 (ACT), and violations can result in significant penalties including contempt of court charges.

Avoid talking, whispering, or making any unnecessary noise. Do not read newspapers, books, or use electronic devices during proceedings. If you need to leave the courtroom during proceedings, wait for an appropriate break or seek permission from court staff.

Specific courtroom roles and protocols

Addressing court officials

When speaking in court, always stand unless directed otherwise by the judicial officer. Address magistrates and judges as "Your Honour" at all times. Other court officials such as registrars should be addressed formally and respectfully. Never interrupt judicial officers or other speakers, and wait to be given permission to speak.

Understanding court procedures

Court proceedings follow established procedures under the Magistrates