Tribal Court
Courtroom Decorum and Conduct
The dignity of the Court must be respected and upheld at all times. Unless physically unable, all individuals are required to rise when the judges enter the courtroom and remain standing until the presiding judge directs everyone to be seated. Likewise, at adjournment, all individuals must stand and remain in place until the judges have fully exited and are no longer visible. Standing within the courtroom is permitted only at the discretion of the Clerk.
Counsel may address the Court only when recognized by the presiding judge. Only litigants and counsel involved in the matter before the Court may speak, unless otherwise directed by a judge.
Attire for counsel, litigants, and spectators must be conservative, respectful, and appropriate to the dignity of the Pueblo of Santa Ana Tribal Court.
Children are not permitted in the courtroom unless expressly authorized by the presiding judge.
The following items are prohibited in the courtroom and lobby area:
- Recording or broadcasting devices.
- Cameras, including those contained in computers and other electronic devices.
- Food, gum chewing, and drink (except for the water provided at the counsel table).
- Computers (except for those to be used by counsel);
- Phones must be turned off or on silent mode.
- Inappropriate facial gestures or exaggerated gesticulating are forbidden.
- Repeated entrances and departures are to be avoided.
- Doorways and passageways should always kept clear.
- NO CHILDREN in courtroom unless permitted by the judge.
- NO Talking or Reading in Gallery.
- NO weapons of any sort except for the Bailiff and Law Enforcement
- NO shorts, hats, sunglasses, tank tops, or any type of inappropriate clothing. Attire for counsel and spectators should be appropriate and respectful for the dignity of the Pueblo of Santa Ana Tribal Court.
- Any prohibited items that are not allowed must remain in your vehicle.
Courthouse Security Screening
All individuals entering the courthouse are required to undergo security screening. This process includes the inspection of persons, clothing, packages, purses, briefcases, and any other containers. Security personnel may also use metal‑detecting hand wands or scanners to screen each visitor.
Items that are prohibited, but not unlawful to possess, must be returned to the visitor’s vehicle. Please ensure you do not bring any items that are inappropriate for a courthouse setting.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive several minutes early to avoid being late for scheduled court proceedings. These measures are in place to protect your safety and the well‑being of all who visit or work within the facility.
Thank you for your cooperation.