Judges are particularly annoyed by lawyers (and their clients) who:
- ignore the rules of court;
- fail to prepare;
- arrive late;
- repeat themselves;
- act rudely;
- make frivolous arguments;
- mislead the court;
- argue with the judge;
- refuse to talk settlement; and
- request a last-minute continuance.
I can add a few from my own experience:
- allow your cell phone to ring while in court;
- dress inappropriately;
- interrupt other people who are speaking;
- chew gum while in court;
- bring a baby or child to court; and
- generally act belligerently without proper decorum.
Source: “Sure-Fire Ways to Alienate the Trial Judge”, Excerpted from Convincing the Judge: Practical Advice for Litigators , by Cecil C. Kuhne III

Attorney Robert “Chip” Mues has been focusing his legal practice throughout Southwest Ohio primarily in divorce and family law matters since 1978. Chip is passionate about family law and has proudly published the Ohio Family Law Blog since 2007. In addition, he previously managing the Dayton law firm of Holzfaster, Cecil, McKnight & Mues LPA until it dissolved on December 31, 2024. He recently has founded MUESLAW in 2025. To learn more about him or MUESLAW, visit www.MuesLaw.com. Appointments are available in person, over the