Step 2: Stay Calm in Court – Why Your Reactions Matter More Than You Think
This is Part 2 of our Trial Prep Series for Business Owners. Missed the overview? Read the full article here.
Trials are intense. There’s money on the line, your business reputation at stake, and the tension of a public courtroom where everyone is watching. When something doesn’t go your way—and something won’t—it’s natural to feel frustrated, disappointed, or even furious.
But if you’re a business owner in litigation, the courtroom is not the place to show it.
This second installment of our trial prep series focuses on a skill that may be harder than it sounds: controlling your emotional reactions in court.
⚖️ Something Will Not Go Our Way—That’s a Guarantee
Even with a strong case, a skilled lawyer, and careful preparation, there will be rulings that don’t go in our favor. The judge may exclude a piece of evidence we thought was critical. The opposing counsel might get away with something that feels unfair. A key point could be misunderstood.
In those moments, it’s absolutely essential that you do not react—visibly or audibly.
Don’t roll your eyes.
Don’t sigh loudly.
Don’t shake your head or look toward the jury in disbelief.
You must look like you expected it.
You must look like it doesn’t rattle you.
You must trust your legal team to handle it.
🚨 Emotional Outbursts Can Hurt—Or Even Get You Sanctioned
Some judges will warn parties early in a trial not to disrupt proceedings or behave in a way that draws attention. If you react emotionally—especially after being warned—you could be reprimanded or even sanctioned by the court.
A rebuke in front of the jury is never a good look. And worse, if the judge sees repeated behavior, they may fine you or impose other penalties that directly hurt your case or business.
You’re not just on trial in the legal sense—you’re being observed for professionalism and credibility. Losing your composure can undermine both.
😠 The Other Side Will Say Something Unflattering—Stay Above It
At some point during trial, the opposing party will say something negative about you, your company, or how you run your business.
It may be:
Misleading
Taken out of context
Deeply personal
Or even blatantly untrue
You must resist the urge to visibly react. The other side may be hoping you’ll take the bait. Don’t give them that win.
Let your attorney handle it—on the record, in the rules, and at the right time.
✍️ If You Need to Say Something, Write It Down—Discreetly
If something said in court upsets or confuses you, write it down on a notepad and quietly pass it to your attorney. Do not whisper, tap your lawyer, or interrupt while court is in session.
This keeps the proceedings professional and avoids drawing attention to yourself—either from the judge or the jury.
The courtroom is a formal environment. Judges appreciate discretion. So do jurors.
🧠 Think Like a Leader Under Pressure
Remember: you’re not just representing yourself. You’re representing your business, your employees, and everyone who depends on your success.
Leaders stay composed. Especially when things don’t go their way.
Jurors will notice your poise. They’ll compare it to the other side. And while they’re instructed not to make decisions based on emotion, your composure (or lack of it) absolutely influences how they perceive your credibility and character.
Final Thought: Control What You Can
You can’t control what the judge will rule.
You can’t control what the other side will say.
But you can control how you react.
And in a courtroom, that might make more difference than you think.