Those who participate in court proceedings and those persons who are employed by the federal courts have the responsibility to treat others with respect and courtesy. It is the aim of the federal courts within the First Circuit to promote a professional atmosphere for court employees and for all those with whom the courts interact. Although litigation is inherently adversarial, it is expected that it will be conducted in a professional manner and that individuals will be treated with courtesy. However, in maintaining order and supervising litigation, a presiding judge has very broad discretion to manage proceedings as the judge deems appropriate.

Anyone who is subject to what the individual perceives to be significant discourtesy by a court employee is entitled to report it to the appropriate court authority. In the case of disrespectful conduct allegedly committed by a court employee, the report should ordinarily be made to a supervisor in the office in which the employee works. Misconduct by judicial officers can be addressed through multiple avenues on which the Circuit Executive or Director of Workplace Relations can provide information.

(As Approved by the First Circuit Judicial Council on 10/4/24)