Chester County lawyer Samuel C. Stretton. Courtesy photo

The role of a judge warrants respect, which includes the use of the term, 'Your Honor.'

I saw an article recently where there are suggestions that the term "Your Honor" should no longer be used in courts because it is a term used for aristocrats, and therefore unsuited for democracy. Do you agree?

This writer does not agree. Although it is true that the term "Your Honor" was often used in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries for dukes and earls in England or other places, the term properly used is to show respect to the office. A judge holds a position that must be given great respect in a democratic society. A judge decides society's disputes, constitutional issues and criminal law issues. Such a job warrants respect and the term "Your Honor" is the traditional way to address a judge in a courtroom. Although this term may have originated because aristocrats were addressed in that fashion, at least in the United States and in England for hundreds of years now, that term has been used in court to demonstrate respect for the judicial officer who represents the law.