Walking into a Tasmanian courtroom for the first time can feel daunting. The good news is that court etiquette is mostly common sense and respect, and once you know the basics you will feel far more at ease. This guide explains how to dress, where to sit, how to address a magistrate or judge, and the rules that actually carry legal force in Tasmania, whether you are the accused, a witness, a supporter or a student. If you would like to talk it through with someone first, call 1800 951 176 for free legal information any time.
Free legal information. Not legal advice. Available 24/7.
In a Tasmanian court, arrive early, dress neatly and turn your phone off before you go in. Bow your head to the front of the court when you enter and leave, stand when the magistrate or judge comes in or goes out and whenever you speak to them, and call them 'Your Honour', 'Sir' or 'Madam'. Stay quiet, never record or photograph the proceedings, and follow any direction from court staff or security.
A courtroom is a formal place, and how you behave shapes the impression you make, especially if you are representing yourself. Standing when you should, staying quiet, dressing neatly and addressing the bench correctly all signal that you take the matter seriously and respect the process. None of it changes the facts of your case, but it helps the court focus on what you have to say rather than on a phone ringing or a raised voice. Just as importantly, some of these expectations are not optional good manners but enforceable rules, and ignoring them can see you removed from the courtroom or charged with contempt.
Here is what to expect, and what is expected of you, from the moment you arrive at a Tasmanian court until your matter is finished.
You do not have to face court alone or unprepared. Several Tasmanian services offer free help, including duty lawyers who may be able to assist you at the courthouse on the day.
Free Legal Help Line on 1300 366 611, plus duty lawyers in court buildings on sitting days who can help with adjournments, referrals and simple guilty pleas.
Culturally safe legal help in criminal, family and civil matters for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, with offices in Hobart, Launceston and Burnie and a 24/7 Custody Notification Service.
Free legal information and advice for people in southern Tasmania, including a plain-English online handbook explaining the court system.
The court's own guide to attending, including 'How to behave in court', who's who, support services and interpreters.
How do I address a magistrate in Tasmania?
Call a magistrate 'Your Honour', 'Sir' or 'Madam'. The old term 'Your Worship' is no longer used in Tasmania. A Supreme Court judge is addressed the same way: 'Your Honour', 'Sir' or 'Madam'.
What should I wear to court?
Dress in a tidy, conservative way, similar to what you might wear for a job interview. There is no strict uniform, but neat clothing shows respect for the court and helps you make a good impression, especially if you are representing yourself. Avoid hats, singlets, beachwear and clothing with offensive slogans.
Can I record or take photos in a Tasmanian court?
No. Recording, filming or photographing proceedings, including with a smartphone, is not allowed anywhere in the court building without specific approval. Doing so can be treated as contempt of court, which can lead to a fine or even imprisonment.
Do I have to stand up in court?
Yes. Stand when the magistrate or judge enters and leaves the courtroom, when they speak to you, and whenever you speak to them. You should also bow your head to the front of the court as you enter and leave.
What happens if I am late to court?
Try hard not to be. If you arrive late, go straight to the registry or court officer and explain. Missing your matter being called can have serious consequences, including a warrant for your arrest or the case being decided without you. If you cannot get there at all, contact the court as soon as possible.
Can I bring a support person with me?
In most courtrooms a support person can sit with you in the public seating, as long as they stay quiet and follow the court's rules. Some matters, such as Youth Justice Division cases, are closed to the public, so ask court staff if you are unsure whether your supporter can come in.
What should I bring to court?
Bring your court paperwork, any documents relevant to your matter, and any contact details for your lawyer or duty lawyer. Take only the bags you need, leave weapons and unnecessary metal items at home, and allow time for security screening.
Can I get an interpreter?
Yes. If you have difficulty understanding or speaking English, you can ask for an interpreter and the court covers the cost. Contact the court registry before your hearing date so one can be arranged, either in person or by phone.
Is there a District Court in Tasmania?
No. Tasmania has only two main courts: the Magistrates Court and the Supreme Court. There is no District or County Court, so matters move directly from the Magistrates Court up to the Supreme Court when they are serious enough.
Will I have a free lawyer at court?
On court sitting days, Tasmania Legal Aid duty lawyers are often available in the courthouse and can give free help with things like adjournments, referrals and simple guilty pleas. They cannot run a full defence for everyone, so it is best to seek advice well before your court date.
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 about your charge is another. A lawyer can explain what your charge means, what the likely outcomes are, whether to plead guilty or not guilty, and what to tell the magistrate or judge. Even a short conversation before your court date can help you walk in prepared and calm. If you cannot afford a private lawyer, a Tasmania Legal Aid duty lawyer or the Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service may be able to assist. For free legal information to help you work out your next step, call 1800 951 176.
Join our lawyer network →Going to court is much less stressful when you know what to expect and have someone to talk it through with. Whether you are the accused, a witness or a supporter, you can call 1800 951 176 to get free, plain-English legal information and be pointed towards the right help in Tasmania. Free legal information, not legal advice.
Call Free 1800 951 176Free legal information. Not legal advice.