Who is required to maintain order and decorum in court proceedings?

• A. The judge
• B. The court clerk
• C. The sheriff
• D. The court reporter

Answer: (A)

In court, the person who maintains order and decorum is the judge. The judge presides over the proceedings, directing the flow of the case, ruling on procedural issues, and addressing any disruptions. When behavior becomes inappropriate, the judge can admonish, rebuke, or even hold someone in contempt to restore order. Security personnel, like the sheriff, provide protection and may remove disruptive individuals, but the authority to control the courtroom and enforce rules rests with the judge. The court clerk and court reporter support the process (handling records and documenting proceedings) but do not govern conduct in the courtroom.