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Desmond's Army Code of Conduct

Desmond’s Army is a professional organization.  It is important that we conduct ourselves in an orderly and professional manner at all times. All members of Desmond’s Army are required to adhere to our codes of conduct.  Failure to do so may result in dismissal.

Courtroom Code of Conduct

BEFORE COURT IS IN SESSION

  1. Always wear your Desmond’s Army gear.  If you don’t have one, please wear a dark purple top.   Dress appropriately for a professional and respectful appearance in the courtroom.

  2. No offensive language in public or on signs.

  3. Protest peacefully and somewhat quietly.

  4. Please do not have any contact or harass the defendant or their council as they enter or leave the courthouse.

  5. A Desmond's Army-appointed spokesperson will speak media as needed.

  6. Put signage away before going inside.  Some courts allow us to leave signs inside the door with wording facing the wall.  Ask a marshal if you are unsure.

ONCE INSIDE THE COURTHOUSE LOBBY

  1. Speak quietly.

  2. DO NOT SPEAK TO OR HARASS THE DEFENDANT.

  3. NO PHOTOS are to be taken inside the courthouse.

  4. Do not block hallways, doorways, etc.

ONCE INSIDE THE COURTROOM

  1. Sit on the side of the courtroom behind the prosecution’s table at the front of the courtroom (usually the right side).

  2. DO NOT SIT NEXT TO THE DEFENDANT.

  3. Turn phones off or to silent BEFORE going into the courtroom. Do not use phones while in the courtroom.

  4. Be quiet and stop talking once the judge enters.

  5. Be respectful, do not put your feet up, slouch, or stare at the defendant.

  6. Remain quiet after the case is heard – wait for the defendant to leave, then exit the courtroom quietly. Remain quiet in the hallway until you exit the building.

  7. If the advocate or prosecutor asks to speak to a DA member, do not gather around. 

UNSOLICITED CONTACT BY A DEFENDANT (new)

  • If you are approached by a defendant, inside or outside the courthouse, notify a Marshal immediately. 

  • Always return to the courthouse for safety and notify the Marshals immediately. 

  • If your vehicle is damaged at the courthouse, notify the Marshal immediately and file a police report.

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