Legal Definitions - His Honor; Her Honor

Definition: His Honor; Her Honor is a title that is usually given to a judge or the mayor of a city. In Massachusetts, it is also given to the lieutenant governor of the commonwealth. It is a respectful way to address these officials.

Examples:

• When addressing a judge in court, you would say "Your Honor" or "Judge [Last Name]." For example, "Your Honor, may I approach the bench?"
• When addressing the mayor of a city, you would say "Mayor [Last Name]" or "Your Honor." For example, "Your Honor, what is your plan to improve the city's infrastructure?"
• In Massachusetts, the lieutenant governor is addressed as "His Honor" or "Her Honor." For example, "Her Honor, the lieutenant governor, will be speaking at the conference."

These examples illustrate how "His Honor" and "Her Honor" are used as titles of respect for officials in different positions of authority.