Before the session begins in Richmond County Civil and Magistrate Court, Sgt. Willie Love gives this advice to those who will appear before the judge.

Don't bring food or drinks into the courtroom, says the sergeant with the Marshal's Office. Turn off the cell phones. Put away the newspaper and magazines. Have your paperwork organized and ready. Listen carefully. Don't talk unless addressed first.

And, Sgt. Love strongly suggests, no grunting or head nodding when speaking to the judge. It's "yes, sir," "no, your honor," "yes, judge."

First impressions go a long way in the courtroom, say those who work there on a daily basis. It could mean the difference between jail time or probation.

"It's like I told my son: When you are going for a job interview, people tend to hire people who look like them," said Superior Court Judge Duncan D. Wheale.

Making a good impression starts before court begins, attorney Jason Troiano tells his clients. They are to be in court 20 minutes early without cell phones, he said.

Mr. Troiano also tells his clients that when a time comes for them to speak, they need to talk loudly and clearly and maintain eye contact with the judge.

Mr. Troiano said he advises his clients not to speak at all unless the judge addresses them or an attorney asks them a question.

Attorney Clayton Jolly advises his clients to dress as if they were going to church -- if not in a suit at least in dress shirt and pants. It also means being neat and clean, and having good posture, Mr. Jolly said.

"It's all about first impressions in a lot of ways," he said.

Mr. Jolly said he goes over with clients the emotional aspects of going to court. He advises them of the need to relax, to take deep breaths and to write notes instead of trying to talk to him while court is in session. If a client seems to be getting out of control, he can expect a kick under the table, Mr. Jolly said.