Amount of distance from the Jury?

Question

Having observed many jury trials, it seems that lawyers are only allowed to stand behind the podium or walk around the direct area around the podium (within 2 or 3 feet) while addressing the court.

In one instance a lawyer did try to stand within two feet of the jury box, and faced the jury, immediately the judge reprimanded the lawyer saying:

You are here to address the court, not to directly address the jury

Are there specific rules of court etiquette that says a lawyer can't approach the jury (like the rules that a lawyer needs approval to approach the witness box)?

Answer 1

Are there specific rules of court etiquette that says a lawyer can't approach the jury (like the rules that a lawyer needs approval to approach the witness box)?

There are rules and directions to that effect, although these fall short of quantifying the minimum distance counsel should keep. For instance, Montana 7th Judicial District Court Rule 18 states:

32. Attorneys have the responsibility of keeping themselves, their parties, and their witnesses apart from the jury at all times

33. During final argument, the attorney must stay a reasonable distance from the jury box.

See also section on Decorum and Courtroom Management here and here:

Stand a respectful distance from the jury at all times.