How should I behave in a hearing?

• You need to behave in much the same way as you would in a courtroom.
• When attending a hearing you should bow your head to the coat of arms each time when you enter and leave the hearing room.
• Stand while the commissioners enter the room and remain standing until they ask you to sit down.
• When you speak to a commissioner you will usually address them as “commissioner.” If he or she is also a judge then you should address them as “your honour.”
• You cannot eat, drink, smoke, talk or use your phone while you are in a hearing.
• If you have any concerns you can use our free and anonymous Ask a Lawyer service to get information specific to your situation.