Period After Polite Requests
The Period
Rulebase Summary
Use a period — not a question mark — to end a sentence that is phrased as a question but actually functions as a polite request, command, or suggestion. These sentences typically begin with 'Will you' or 'May I' and call for action rather than an answer. The key test: is the speaker expecting something to be done, or expecting a verbal reply? If action, use a period.
Examples
Q. Will you please spell your last name for the record?
Q. Will you please spell your last name for the record.
Expects action, not a yes/no answer — use a period.
THE COURT: Would counsel please approach the bench?
THE COURT: Would counsel please approach the bench.
Judge directing attorneys to act, not asking a question.
Transcript Notes
In court reporting, context matters heavily. In written communication the polite-request period is straightforward, but in oral testimony most 'Will you…' and 'May I…' sentences genuinely expect an answer and should take a question mark.
Consider who is speaking to whom: requests between judge and lawyer, or lawyer and court reporter, are more likely true polite requests (period). Questions directed at a witness under examination usually expect a verbal answer (question mark).
When in doubt — especially if the speaker pauses for a response — treat it as a question.
Style Guide References (2)
Morson's
BGGP