It's getting real real now.
The docket was just posted on line.
We are booked into Courtroom #3 at 9:30 AM on Wednesday 6/26/13.
Remember, as citizens exercising our constitutional right to observe justice in action we are required to adhere to some sort of dress code. While business casual might work for some folks, I threw away all my ties and sports coats when I retired.*
Long pants (yes, you know who you are and why we need to mention this) are required. While you may observe others in te courtroom who do not own a belt or do not know how to properly use one, it would be appreciated if your pants waistline was somewhere within a few inches of your natural waistline.
Shirts (with sleeves) may be tucked or untucked. Something that looks better than a tshirt would be more appropriate than not. If you will be wearing a tshirt please consider selecting one without even the slightest provocative writing/artwork. If you want to discuss First Amendment rights instead of watching justice happen, please pretend you are not with us, m'k?
Shoes are necessary. Nobody said anything about what kind or if they must be polished, so don't start obsessing about that.
I personally have never gotten into a discussion with the deputies/baliffs as to whether or not an empty holster is "still a weapon" or not. I do not see any need to begin that conversation bright and early Wednesday AM. YMMV. (Note to self 'cause I goofed once - check belt to ensure absence of spare ammunition.)
Cellphones, knives (of any size), cameras, audio and/or video recording devices (including stealth items unless you want to risk getting hauled into court after it hits YouTube), nail files, soft drinks/water, and chewing gum currently in use are not allowed. Hats must be removed when entering the courtroom and remain off inside the courtroom.
Cheering/booing/heckling is not permitted in the courtroom, although if you stifle it quickly enough laughter may be gotten away with. Loud noise is to be kept to a minimum inside the building - fremember the difference between your inside and your outside voice even if others around you forget.. Cursing is against the law (
http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?000+cod+18.2-416 ).
Why all this nit-picking? 'Cause Henrico takes itself rather seriously and does not seem to even begin to understand how much like clowns they are going to look - as opposed to those clowns who knew how much of a circus act they were putting on.
Last word - GSL stickers will be held in readiness, but unless user gives the OK do not expect to see them being handed out.
stay safe.
* - You do not want to know what I have selected to be dressed in when I'm buried. Trust me - there is not enough brain bleach.
