High Court of Philadelphia – Court Information

Code of Conduct · High Court of Philadelphia

Summary

All officers, staff, and witnesses appearing before the High Court of Philadelphia are held to a higher standard of conduct. While on court grounds or participating in any court-related proceeding, you are expected to act professionally, follow all rules, and respect the authority of the Court.

Section 1 – Actions of Reprimand

1.1 – Disruptive Conduct

Typing, speaking, or committing any act that disrupts the Court or its proceedings is prohibited and may be treated as Contempt of Court.

1.2 – Contempt of Court

Contempt of Court may be issued by any Judge or the Chief Justice. Sanctions for contempt can include strikes, suspension, removal from the session, fines, or other disciplinary action. The Court may also revoke your right to legal representation for the remainder of that proceeding, requiring you to present your case alone.

1.3 – Violation of Rules of Procedure

Knowingly violating the Court’s Rules of Procedure may result in Contempt of Court and, when applicable, removal of your license to practice before this Court.

1.4 – Undisclosed Evidence

Introducing evidence that was not properly disclosed during pretrial may lead to automatic judgment against your party, exclusion of that evidence, and/or a contempt finding.

1.5 – Perjury

Perjury is the act of lying under oath or knowingly presenting false statements to the Court. Perjury is issued by the Chief Justice and may qualify the offender for termination or permanent removal from judicial or legal positions within the department.

1.6 – Witness Tampering

Witness Tampering is the act of constructing, influencing, or pressuring a witness to provide false, misleading, or incomplete testimony. This may be punished in the same manner as Perjury and can result in severe sanctions, including termination.

1.7 – Falsification of Evidence

Altering, fabricating, or misrepresenting evidence, or deliberately twisting key facts, is strictly prohibited and may be treated as Perjury under §1.5.

1.8 – Failure to Obey Orders of the Court

When a Judge or the Chief Justice calls for order, all parties must immediately comply. Continuing to speak, argue, or disrupt after being instructed to stop may result in a contempt finding and immediate removal from the courtroom.

1.9 – Trespassing on Court Property

Entering restricted areas—such as the Judge’s chambers, staff-only rooms, secure back areas, or any other designated restricted zone—without proper authorization is considered trespassing and may be handled as Contempt of Court.

1.10 – Violation of Ethical Protocols

Exploiting or manipulating clients, abusing your position, or acting in a manner that clearly violates professional ethics or common sense standards is prohibited. Violations may result in fines, sanctions, and/or removal of your right to appear before this Court.

1.11 – Misconduct on Court Grounds

Any breach of departmental rules, server rules, or game rules that occurs on court grounds or in direct connection with a court session may be treated as a violation of this Code of Conduct. Misconduct can result in contempt, removal from the courthouse, and referral for additional discipline (strikes, suspension, termination, or blacklist).

Section 2 – Courtroom Decorum

2.1 – Dress & Appearance

Anyone appearing before the Court must wear the appropriate department or division uniform, or other approved attire. Meme outfits, joke avatars, or clearly unprofessional appearances can result in removal from the courtroom or denial of participation in the session.

2.2 – Spectator Conduct

Spectators must remain silent and may not interrupt, comment over, or otherwise interfere with the proceedings. Unauthorized speaking, trolling, or approaching the bench without permission is not allowed and may result in removal from court grounds and possible sanctions.

2.3 – Voice Chat & Microphone Use

Voice chat must remain clear and professional. Mic spamming, soundboards, music, background yelling, or intentional disruption of VC is prohibited. Violations may result in a mute, removal from the session, and/or further discipline.

2.4 – Chat Behavior

All text communication (in-game or in Court-related channels) must remain respectful and appropriate. Spam, excessive caps, slurs, harassment, or trolling in Court contexts may lead to mutes, strikes, or additional sanctions under §1.2.

Section 3 – Use of Powers & Admin

3.1 – Administrative Abuse on Court Grounds

Admin powers, moderation tools, and special commands may only be used for legitimate, official purposes. Using commands such as kill, teleport spam, visual spam, “nuke,” or any similar action on court grounds for non-official reasons is strictly prohibited and may result in removal from court, contempt, and high-command discipline.

3.2 – Interference by Non-Party Staff

Staff or officers not assigned to the case may not interfere with arrests, evidence handling, witnesses, or the conduct of the trial. Unnecessary interference with an active case can result in sanctions, including removal from the area and possible contempt.

3.3 – Retaliation After Proceedings

Retaliation against any Judge, attorney, witness, or party due to the outcome of a case—whether in-game or on Discord—is forbidden. This includes harassment, threats, abuse of rank, or targeted trolling. Retaliation may result in strikes, suspension, termination, or blacklist.

Section 4 – Communications & Privacy

4.1 – Ex Parte Communications

Parties may not privately message or DM a Judge or the Chief Justice about the merits of a pending or active case without the other side present or properly notified. Attempts to secretly influence the Court may result in sanctions and removal from the case.

4.2 – Evidence Handling & Confidentiality

Evidence submitted for court use—such as screenshots, logs, clips, or documents—must not be altered or leaked outside of designated channels without authorization. Unauthorized sharing of sensitive case materials or internal logs can lead to sanctions under this Code and relevant department rules.

4.3 – Recording & Streaming

Recording or streaming court sessions is allowed only if it does not disrupt the proceedings and follows server policy. Using recordings or clips to harass, dox, or target individuals is prohibited and may result in severe disciplinary action, including blacklist.

Rules of Procedure · Appeals Court of Philadelphia

1. General Structure & Definitions

1.1 – Panel Size

The Appeals Court panel shall consist of no fewer than two (2) and no more than five (5) Judges. Cases may not proceed with only one Judge. When possible, panels of three (3) or five (5) Judges are preferred.

1.2 – Verdict Standard

To reach a verdict, more than half of the panel must agree. Examples:

2 Judges → both must agree (2/2)
3 Judges → at least 2 must agree (2/3)
4 Judges → at least 3 must agree (3/4)
5 Judges → at least 3 must agree (3/5)

If a vote results in a tie that cannot be resolved by adding an available Judge, the issue will be resolved in favor of the Defendant.

1.3 – Defense Presence

The Defense may have the following present:

The Defendant (the person appealing or being tried), and
Their designated attorney or representative.

The Defendant may represent themselves if they choose.

1.4 – Prosecution Presence

The Prosecution (the State) may have the following present:

The main prosecutor,
A secondary prosecutor (optional), and
A supervisor (optional, if applicable).

There is no requirement to use more than one prosecutor.

1.5 – Impartiality of the Panel

The panel must remain unbiased and impartial at all times. Any act that indicates bias, favoritism, or personal involvement may result in the immediate suspension of that Judge, pending review by the Chief Justice or Court Administration.

1.6 – Use of Juries

A jury may be appointed only in rare and specific circumstances, and only if approved by the Chief Justice. In all other cases, the Appeals Court panel alone determines the verdict.

1.7 – Professional Conduct Between Parties

Both Prosecution and Defense must remain professional. Badgering, insulting, or disrespecting one another is not tolerated and may result in warnings, sanctions under the Code of Conduct, and in extreme cases, automatic judgment and/or contempt findings.

1.8 – Appeals of Internal Affairs or Other Decisions

Any member subject to a punishment or decision (including ones issued by Internal Affairs) may file a petition/appeal to the Appeals Court. In IA-related appeals, the Defendant is the person appealing the IA decision, and IA may be represented by the agent who issued the punishment or another IA agent chosen by IA command.

1.9 – Authority to Modify Procedure

The Chief Justice or the presiding Judge (Judge+) on a case may alter or waive specific procedural rules for that case only, when necessary for fairness or efficiency. Any such changes should be stated on the record.

1.10 – Relationship to the Code of Conduct

All Appeals Court proceedings are subject to the High Court Code of Conduct. Misconduct during hearings may result in sanctions under that Code, in addition to any decision made in the appeal itself.

2. First Contact & Case Intake

2.1 – Initiation of a Case

A case before the Appeals Court may begin when:

The Defendant is summoned by the Court, or
The Defendant files a petition/appeal challenging a prior decision or punishment.

2.2 – Initial Review

A Judge+ (including but not limited to the Chief Justice) will review the petition or complaint to decide whether the Court has jurisdiction and whether the matter should be accepted or denied (vetoed).

2.3 – Scheduling Arraignment

If the petition or complaint is accepted, an Arraignment date is scheduled, and the Defendant and the State’s representative are notified of the date, time, and server.

2.4 – Failure to Respond or Appear

If a party fails to appear without valid reason, the Court may proceed without them, enter a default judgment, or reschedule once at the Court’s discretion. Repeat failures or deliberate dodging of Court may result in denial of the appeal and/or additional discipline.

3. Arraignment

3.1 – Required Presence

At Arraignment, the Defendant, the Prosecution (State representative), the panel of Judges, and the gallery (as permitted) should be present.

3.2 – Identification for the Record

At the start of the session, the Prosecution, Defense, and Defendant’s attorney (if any) will state their names and roles for the record.

3.3 – Reading of Charges / Issue

The Chief Justice or presiding Judge will read the charges or punishment being appealed and clearly state what decision or action is under review.

3.4 – Clarifying the Case

The Court will confirm whether the case is a fresh trial or a direct appeal of a prior decision. Any confusion about what is being appealed must be resolved at this stage.

4. Opening Statements

4.1 – Order of Opening Statements

Opening Statements proceed in this order:

Prosecution Opening – Explains what happened, states what they intend to prove, and argues why the original decision or charges should stand.
Defense Opening – Explains their version of events, what they intend to prove, and why the decision or charges were wrong, excessive, or unjust.

4.2 – Nature of Opening Statements

Opening Statements are not evidence. They are a preview of what each side will attempt to prove during Trial.

5. Pretrial

5.1 – Evidence Submission

Before Trial begins, both Prosecution and Defense must submit: all evidence (screenshots, logs, clips, etc.) and a list of intended witnesses to a group chat created by a Judge+ (usually the Chief Justice or presiding Judge), without arguing in the chat.

5.2 – Undisclosed Evidence

Any evidence not submitted during Pretrial is presumed excluded from Trial, unless the panel unanimously agrees there is good cause to allow it.

5.3 – Pretrial Motions

Either side may request suppression of certain evidence, dismissal of specific charges, or other procedural rulings. These motions are decided by the presiding Judge or panel as appropriate.

6. Trial

6.1 – Order of Presentation

The Appeals Court follows this structure:

Defense Case-in-Chief – The Defense presents its witnesses and evidence first. The Prosecution may not speak during this stage except when permitted for objections.
Prosecution Cross-Examination – After the Defense finishes questioning each witness, the Prosecution may cross-examine that witness.
Prosecution Case-in-Chief – After the Defense has fully presented its case, the Prosecution presents its own witnesses and evidence. The Defense may not speak during this stage except when permitted for objections.
Defense Cross-Examination – After the Prosecution finishes questioning each witness, the Defense may cross-examine that witness.

6.2 – Questions from the Panel

At any point after a witness finishes testimony, the Judges may ask their own questions for clarification. Both sides must remain silent unless asked something directly.

6.3 – Objections

Objections must be short, clear, and relevant (for example: “relevance,” “asked and answered,” “speculation”). The presiding Judge or panel will rule and proceed.

7. Closing Statements

7.1 – Order of Closings

Closing Statements proceed in this order:

Defense Closing Statement – Summarizes the Defense’s position, the evidence presented, and why the charges or original decision should be reduced, reversed, or dismissed.
Prosecution Closing Statement – Summarizes the Prosecution’s position, the evidence presented, and why the charges or original decision should be upheld or modified.

7.2 – No New Evidence

No new evidence may be introduced during Closing Statements. Closings are limited to discussing evidence already on the record.

8. Recess & Deliberation

8.1 – Recess

After Closing Statements, the Court will go into recess while the panel deliberates.

8.2 – Deliberations

During deliberation, the Judges review the evidence and testimony, vote according to the standard in §1.2, and decide each count or issue on appeal. Parties and spectators must not contact Judges privately during deliberation.

9. Judgment & Publication

9.1 – Announcement of Verdict

The Chief Justice or presiding Judge will reconvene the Court and read the verdict on each count or issue being appealed, and state whether the original punishment or decision is upheld, modified, or overturned.

9.2 – Appeals of Punishments

If the Defendant was appealing a punishment (such as an IA action), the Court will clearly state whether the punishment is confirmed, reduced, increased (only if properly noticed), or removed.

9.3 – Written Summary

A short verdict and case summary will be posted after Judgment in the designated Court channel or record log. If the Chief Justice was not present, they will be notified and may review the case file.

9.4 – Finality

Unless otherwise stated by the Court, decisions of the Appeals Court are considered final within the in-game judicial system, subject only to extraordinary review by the Chief Justice or server ownership in extreme circumstances.

Court Rank Requirements

Judges

Head Judge

Handpicked by court leadership.

Supreme Judge

Handpicked. Senior judge trusted with major or sensitive cases.

Judge

Handpicked. Fully empowered to preside over Hearings and Appeals.

Associate Judge

Must pass an application. May sit on panels and assist senior Judges.

Lawyers

Principal Lawyer

Handpicked. Top-level lawyer for the Court.

Head Lawyer

25 successful summons.

Executive Lawyer

15 successful summons.

Senior Lawyer

10 successful summons.

Experienced Lawyer

5 successful summons.

Lawyer

1 successful summon.

Trial Lawyer

Must pass an application. Entry-level position for new courtroom attorneys.

Available Motions

1. Motion to Dismiss

Template

“The Defendant moves to dismiss this case because [reason].”

Example

“The Defendant moves to dismiss this case because the charges are not supported by the law.”

Explanation

Used by the Defense when the case doesn’t have enough evidence, is missing key proof, or has no proper legal foundation.

2. Motion to Suppress Evidence

Template

“The Defendant moves to suppress [evidence] because [reason].”

Example

“The Defendant moves to suppress the bag of drugs because it was found in an illegal search.”

Explanation

Used when evidence was obtained in an illegal, unfair, or rule-breaking manner and should not be allowed in court.

3. Motion for Continuance

Template

“The [Party] moves for a continuance of [hearing/trial] because [reason].”

Example

“The Defendant moves for a continuance of the trial because their lawyer needs more time to prepare.”

Explanation

Used to request more time before a hearing or trial (for example, to gather evidence, prepare arguments, or find representation).

4. Motion to Compel

Template

“The [Party] moves to compel [other side] to provide [documents/testimony].”

Example

“The Plaintiff moves to compel the Defendant to provide the video footage requested in discovery.”

Explanation

Used to force the other side to provide evidence or information they’re holding back (for example, an officer has a bodycam clip or video of the incident and won’t provide it).

5. Motion for Summary Judgment

Template

“The [Party] moves for summary judgment because there are no facts in dispute and [they] should win by law.”

Example

“The Plaintiff moves for summary judgment because the Defendant admitted to signing the contract and not paying.”

Explanation

Used when the important facts are not in dispute, and one side argues they should win automatically under the law without needing a full trial.

Legal Principles

For Lawyers

As a lawyer, you’re expected to know and properly use basic courtroom phrases and concepts.

Core Courtroom Phrases

“Objection!”
Said to challenge a question or piece of evidence that you believe violates the rules (for example: leading, hearsay, irrelevant).

“Objection, sustained.”
The Judge agrees with the objection. The question is not allowed, and the witness must not answer.

“Objection, overruled.”
The Judge disagrees with the objection. The question is allowed, and the witness must answer.

“Leading the witness.”
A type of objection. You’re accusing the other side of asking a question that suggests the answer instead of letting the witness answer freely.

“Hearsay.”
A type of objection. You’re saying a statement is based on something said outside of court and is being used to prove that thing is true.

“Move to strike.”
You’re asking the Court to remove a statement from the record, usually after an objection is sustained or the answer goes too far.

“May it please the Court.”
A respectful phrase used when beginning to speak to the Judge or panel.

“Your Honor.”
The proper way to address the Judge.

“Call your next witness.”
Direction from the Judge telling you to proceed with your next witness.

“You may be seated.”
Used by the Judge to tell everyone they can sit after standing.

“Does that refresh your recollection?”
A question to a witness after showing them a document or object, to see if it helps them remember details they forgot.

“The Defense/Prosecution rests.”
Said when your side is done presenting all of its witnesses and evidence.

Phrases in Legal Documents & Conversation

“With all due respect…”
Used when disagreeing with the Judge or opposing counsel, while still showing respect.

“Going to discovery.”
Refers to the process where both sides exchange evidence and information before trial.

“Pursuant to…”
Means “in accordance with” or “as allowed by,” usually followed by a rule, law, or document.

“Motion for a continuance.”
A formal request asking the Court to delay or postpone a hearing or trial.

“In consideration of the premises…”
Old-school language sometimes used in documents meaning “given everything already stated.”

“De minimis non curat lex.”
Latin for: “The law does not concern itself with trifles.” Used to say an issue is too minor or petty for the Court to focus on.

“Pro se.”
Latin for “for oneself.” Describes someone representing themselves instead of having a lawyer.

“Stare decisis.”
Latin for “to stand by things decided.” The idea that courts follow past decisions (precedent) when deciding new cases.

For Judges

As a Judge, you represent the Court. You are expected to speak clearly, neutrally, and professionally at all times.

Opening Court

Witness oath:
“Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?”

“All rise.” / “Hear ye, hear ye.”
Used to signal the start of the court session as the Judge enters.

“You may be seated.” / “Please be seated.”
Said after the Judge takes the bench and the courtroom has stood.

Calling the case:
“Calling the case of [Case Name].”

During Testimony and Examination

“You may proceed.”
The Judge tells the attorney they can begin questioning or continue.

“Objection sustained.”
The Judge agrees with an objection. The question or evidence is not allowed.

“Objection overruled.”
The Judge disagrees with an objection. The question or evidence is allowed.

“You may cross-examine, counsel.”
The Judge gives the other side permission to question the witness after direct examination.

“You may step down.”
The Judge tells a witness they may leave the stand.

Making a Ruling or Ending Court

“The Court is adjourned.”
Used to officially end the session.

“This will be a bench trial.”
Means the Judge (or panel) will decide the case with no jury.

“You have exhausted that subject, please move on.”
Used when an attorney is repeating themselves too much on one topic.

“You may answer the question.”
Used after an objection is overruled or when there’s confusion about whether the witness should answer.