Rule IV. Courtroom Decorum and Procedures

Rule IV. Courtroom Decorum and Procedures

   A. All counsel shall conduct themselves in a manner which promotes a positive image of the profession, assists the court in properly reviewing the case, and displays appropriate respect for the justice system.

   B. All parties and their counsel shall be punctual and prepared for all court appearances at the time set for hearing by the court.

   C. Counsel shall examine witnesses and address the court from the counsel’s table and shall not approach the bench or witness stand while the court is in session without first obtaining permission of the court.

   D. Witnesses and parties shall be referred to and addressed by their surnames unless age or other circumstance allows for usage of their first name.

   E. Only one counsel for each party shall examine a witness or make objections during the testimony of such witness.

   F. At the discretion of the security officers, upon order of the court, any person may be subjected to a search of his or her person for possession of any weapons, destructive devices, or components thereof.

   G. Counsel shall be attired in ordinary business wear. All parties, witnesses, and persons present in the courtroom shall be appropriately attired. The court may continue or delay a hearing if any parties’ appearance is inappropriate. The court may also cause the removal from the courtroom of any individual inappropriately attired.

   H. All electronic devices shall be turned off or silenced so as not to cause a disturbance during court proceedings.

   I. All court hearings are open to the public as provided by law; however, the court may close the hearing or a portion thereof pursuant to law and Nebraska Supreme Court rules.

   J. Unless expressly authorized by the judge, all broadcasting, televising, and/or taking photographs, as well as audio and video recording, except for the making of the official court record of the proceeding, are prohibited in the courtroom and in the areas immediately adjacent to all juvenile courtrooms, as well as in the juvenile court reception area, during sessions of court or during the recesses between sessions.

Rule IV(H) and (J) amendments approved December 10, 2014; Rule IV(H) amended May 17, 2023.