Walking into a South Australian courtroom for the first time can feel daunting. The good news is that courts run on a small set of clear, common-sense rules about how to dress, where to sit, how to address the magistrate or judge, and what you can and cannot do. This guide explains exactly what to expect so you can attend with confidence, whether you are facing a charge, giving evidence, supporting someone, or simply watching. If you would like free legal information before your court date, call our helpline any time on 1800 951 176.
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In a South Australian court, arrive early, dress neatly, and turn your phone off completely before you go in. Stand and give a small bow of the head toward the Coat of Arms when you enter and leave, and stand whenever the magistrate or judge enters, leaves, or speaks to you. Address a magistrate or a judge as 'Your Honour' (you may also say 'Sir' or 'Madam'). Do not talk, eat, drink, chew gum, or record or photograph anything in the courtroom. Wait quietly until your name or matter is called, then move to the front when directed.
How you conduct yourself in court sends a quiet but powerful message. A magistrate or judge who sees that you have arrived on time, dressed neatly, switched off your phone and treated the court with respect is seeing someone who takes the matter seriously, and that impression can carry weight, especially in sentencing where remorse and attitude are relevant. The reverse is also true: turning up late, dressed in a singlet and thongs, talking over the bench or letting a phone ring can read as disrespect and start you on the back foot. None of it changes the facts of your case, but courtesy costs nothing and good manners never hurt your position.
The way you behave in court will not decide guilt or innocence, but it shapes how smoothly your day goes and how you come across. Here is what good etiquette tends to influence.
You do not have to face court alone or unprepared. Several South Australian services offer free help, from quick advice to a duty solicitor who can speak for you on the day. Contact them early, as duty solicitors are busy and demand is high.
Free Legal Help Line on 1300 366 424 (weekdays 9am to 4.30pm) plus a free duty solicitor service in the summary courts for eligible people.
Free legal help, court representation and a duty solicitor service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across South Australia, including a 24-hour custody line.
Free, plain-English online guide explaining how SA courts work, court behaviour, suppression orders and the duty solicitor service.
Local, not-for-profit centres offering free advice and help on many everyday legal problems for people who cannot afford a private lawyer.
How do I address a magistrate in South Australia?
Call a magistrate 'Your Honour'. You can also use 'Sir' or 'Madam'. The Courts Administration Authority of SA lists 'Your Honour', 'Sir' or 'Madam' as the correct forms of address for both magistrates and judges. The old term 'Your Worship' is no longer used for magistrates in South Australia.
How do I address a District Court or Supreme Court judge?
A District Court judge and a Supreme Court judge are both addressed as 'Your Honour', or 'Sir' or 'Madam'. The same respectful approach applies in every level of court: stand when you speak to the bench and let the judge finish before you reply.
What should I wear to court in South Australia?
You do not need a suit, but your clothes should be neat and smart, the sort of thing you might wear to a job interview or a respectful occasion. Avoid singlets, thongs, ripped clothing, and keep hats and sunglasses off once you are in the courtroom. Tidy, modest, covered-up clothing is the safe choice.
Can I record or take photos in court?
No. Video cameras, audio recorders and other electronic recording equipment are not permitted in South Australian courtrooms, and photographing or filming proceedings without the court's permission can be treated as contempt of court. Switch your phone off rather than using it to record.
Do I have to stand up in court?
Yes, at certain times. Stand and bow your head when the magistrate or judge enters or leaves the courtroom, and stay standing until they have gone. You also stand whenever you speak to the bench or the bench speaks to you. It is also customary to bow your head toward the Coat of Arms as you enter and leave the room.
What if I am late to court?
Get there as soon as you possibly can and tell court staff or the front desk that you have arrived. In a criminal matter, failing to appear when required can have serious consequences, including the matter proceeding without you or a warrant being issued for your arrest. If you know in advance you cannot make it, contact the court or your lawyer immediately.
Where do I sit and how will I know when my matter is on?
Members of the public usually sit in the gallery toward the back of the courtroom. Court lists are posted on screens or noticeboards near the courtrooms, and a court officer will call out names or matters. Listen carefully, stay nearby, and move to the front only when your name or matter is called or you are directed to.
Can I bring a support person or use an interpreter?
Yes. You can usually bring a friend or family member to sit with you in the public gallery for support, although generally only your lawyer can speak for you. If you do not speak English well, tell the court or your lawyer before the day so a qualified interpreter can be arranged, as this helps make sure you understand and are understood.
What is a suppression order and why does it matter to me?
A suppression order is a direction from the court, made under section 69A of the Evidence Act 1929 (SA), that certain information must not be published, such as a name or particular evidence. South Australian courts use these orders relatively often. If one applies to your case, do not post anything about it online or on social media, because breaching a suppression order is a criminal offence.
Is the Youth Court open to the public?
Generally no. Under the Youth Court Act 1993 (SA), Youth Court proceedings are usually held in closed court, and only certain people may be present. It is also an offence to publish information that identifies a young person involved in the matter. This is designed to protect children and young people involved in the justice system.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-19. Laws change — confirm current details with the linked official sources or call 1800 951 176.
Knowing how to behave in court is one thing; knowing what to say is another. A lawyer can speak to the court for you, explain what is happening in plain language, and present your matter in the best possible light, which is especially valuable if you are facing a criminal charge, the matter is serious, or you simply feel out of your depth. Even a quick conversation with a duty solicitor at court can make a real difference. If you cannot afford a private lawyer, contact the Legal Services Commission of South Australia or, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement, and ask whether you qualify for help.
Join our lawyer network →If you have a court date coming up in South Australia and you are not sure what to expect, getting clear information early takes a lot of the worry out of the day. Our free helpline can explain how SA courts work, point you toward the right free services, and help you understand the next steps so you walk in prepared rather than anxious. Call 1800 951 176 to talk it through. Free legal information, not legal advice.
Call Free 1800 951 176Free legal information. Not legal advice.