Ethics/Professional Responsibility
Oct. 15, 2026
Why formality still matters in the age of remote proceedings
As remote court appearances become more casual, the traditions that reinforce respect for the judicial process and public confidence in the courts risk being lost.
Hall of Justice
Ronda J. McKaig
Supervising Civil Judge
Ventura County Superior Court
Civil Trials, Law & Motion
Loyola Law School
In colonial America, courtrooms were solemn spaces, steeped in pomp and circumstance and certain British traditions such as barristers garbed in powdered wigs and gowns.
Since the American Revolution, the pomp and circumstance dissipated, but courtrooms remained formal environments, governed by well-established rules of etiquette and procedure. Attorneys showed respect for the court and its staff by adhering to protocols such as avoiding the well and standing to address the court. ...
For only $95 a month (the price of 2 article purchases)
Receive unlimited article access and full access to our archives,
Daily Appellate Report, award winning columns, and our
Verdicts and Settlements.
Or
$895, but save $100 when you subscribe today… Just $795 for the first year!
Or access this article for $45
(Purchase provides 7-day access to this article. Printing, posting or downloading is not allowed.)
Already a subscriber?
Sign In