University:
Boston University
Course:
LAW AM 700 | Intro to American Law
Academic year:

2020
Views:

489

Pages:

1
Author:

Tiara Huynh

Judicial Internship Guide: Best Practices & Court Etiquette 1. Dress code a. In court i. Suits! (In good condition, skirt suits an appropriate length, etc.) 1. Appropriate shoes (closed-toed), wear tights with skirts b. In chambers i. Dressier side of business casual ii. Err on the side of being conservative (appropriate cut, length, colors, etc.; clothes in good condition) 1. A good gauge is what the law clerk wears on non-courtroom days 2. Court decorum a. Cell phones OFF (less distracting, and less risk of forgetting to put it on silent!) b. Stand when judge enters (until he/she invites the courtroom to be seated), as well as when court adjourns (until the judge exits) c. Avoid entering late or leaving early unless absolutely necessary. No repeat entrances/departures during the same proceeding – it’s distracting. d. No side conversations, reading unrelated materials, etc. e. Do not ask questions of the law clerk until proceedings have recessed. f. Be friendly and professional to all court staff (security, court officers, Clerk’s Office, etc.) 3. Key terminology a. Look up unfamiliar terms in the US Courts Glossary or Black’s Law Dictionary. b. ASK! The judge and clerks would much prefer you clarify if you’re confused. 4. Create face time with judges and clerks a. Attend all events you are invited to – lunch, drinks, presentations, etc. b. When you have quick questions, ask them by email. If something requires a longer explanation (and the law clerk has time), go to him/her in person. c. Find out about the judge’s hobbies/interests and try to connect with him/her on topics outside of work. d. Ask to have lunch or coffee with your judge and/or clerks occasionally. e. Be friendly and professional with the other interns – people in chambers notice this. f. Keep in touch after the summer! Judges and clerks make great mentors and references. 5. Maintaining connections a. Locally: i. Email your judge and/or clerk asking to meet for coffee or lunch. ii. Arrange a visit to the courthouse, if possible. (Don’t stop by unannounced.) iii. Holiday cards and important updates (ex: new job) go a long way! b. Distance: i. Keep in touch via email. Update your judge on school, your job search, etc. ii. Arrange a visit when you’re next planning to be in the area (ex: winter break) iii. Holiday cards (including to the law clerks!) and important updates go a long way