How do I dress for court?
Most people who have to go to court are nervous about what to expect. Walking into a courtroom is an intimidating experience. The last thing you want is to be called out or even excluded because of something you’re wearing. Remember that first impressions are based on appearance. If you’re dressed inappropriately for court it will be noticed.
A general rule of thumb is to dress as if you were going to church or out to a nice restaurant. You don’t have to go overboard — it’s not a formal occasion so a suit or dress is not required. Many lawyers advise their clients about proper attire for court.
If this is your first time in court and you don’t have a lawyer, there are a few simple dos and don’ts that will make your experience less traumatic. Much of this is common sense and should not surprise you.
Before you enter the courthouse leave your gum and cigarettes outside. If you’re under 18, you shouldn’t be smoking anyway, but that’s another matter. Dress appropriate for the weather – the judge and staff have done so and expect you to do the same. Don’t wear flip-flops or go barefoot [this has happened, especially in the summer months]. No tank-tops or strapless outfits. Many courts keep large T-shirts at the front desk to hand out to the public when too much skin is showing. Mid-riff shirts, tube tops and miniskirts should be left at home. Some courts frown on the wearing of jeans and baggy pants, especially those that expose undergarments.
Remove your hat, iPod or any electronic devices. Make sure if you’re allowed to keep your cell phone with you that it’s turned off. You may have to go through a metal detector and security when entering the building. You may be given additional advice from the security guards. Don’t bring any food or drink into the courtroom. Gang colors and insignias are usually prohibited due to security and in the interest of witness protection. You can always call the court in advance and ask about their dress code.
The goal regarding dress is to maintain decorum and security. Courts are places where serious business is conducted. Appropriate respect and dignity is expected throughout the proceedings.
This post was written by Tom Jacobs. Judge Tom is the founder and moderator of AsktheJudge.info. He is a retired juvenile judge and spent 23 years on the bench. He has written several books for lawyers and judges as well as teens and parents including the recently published 'Teen Cyberbullying Investigated' (Free Spirit Publishing). When he's not answering teens' questions, Judge Tom can be found hiking, traveling and reading.
