What NOT To Wear: Court Edition
While we may not want to think so, we are often times judged
on our appearance. One place your appearance is closely looked at, is in court.
Therefore, looking your best and dressing appropriately is extremely important.
When you dress correctly for court, you are showing that you not only respect
the courtroom, but that you are taking this matter seriously. Whether you’re in
court for a traffic ticket or for a more complicated matter, it’s important to
dress appropriately. O’Donnell Law Center is here for you and wants to help you
get the best result possible in your case. Because of this, we have put
together some information about what you shouldn’t wear to court.
Whenever you are in court, you want to present the best image you can. You only have one chance to make a great first impression. When getting ready for court, a great rule to go by is to wear your “Sunday best”, or dress as if you are going to a job interview. It’s also important to dress how you want others to perceive you. There’s a certain time and place for everything and when it comes to court, it’s best to keep it simple.
Whenever you are in court, you want to present the best image you can. You only have one chance to make a great first impression. When getting ready for court, a great rule to go by is to wear your “Sunday best”, or dress as if you are going to a job interview. It’s also important to dress how you want others to perceive you. There’s a certain time and place for everything and when it comes to court, it’s best to keep it simple.
Here is a list of the
types of clothing you should never wear when you go to court:
- Shorts – regardless of where you live, most courts will not allow you to enter the courtroom if you are wearing shorts
- Any sleeveless shirts
- A muscle shirt
- Exercise clothes
- Anything that shows too much skin
- Sundress or strapless dress
- Crop tops
- Spaghetti straps
- Anything low-cut or showing cleavage
- Tight clothing
- Skirts or dresses that are short – they should hit just above the knee
- Leggings or tights
- T-shirts – especially if they send the wrong message
- Clothing that reveals your underwear
- Shorts or cut-offs
- Flip-flops – it’s best to stay away from all types of sandals
- Athletic shoes
- Open-toed shoes
- “Flashy” jewelry
- Hats of any kind
- Sunglasses – unless medically prescribed
When you go to court, your audience is the Judge (or for some, the Judge and the jury). First impressions at court are crucial. Studies have shown that your appearance, regardless of how unfair it seems, greatly influences how others perceive you. At O’Donnell Law Center, we want you to be prepared if you ever have to go to court. Besides dressing appropriately, there are a few things that you should avoid bringing into the courtroom. This items include:
- Chewing gum
- Food
- Drinks
- Cell phones
- Electronic devices
- Recording devices (unless prior court approval is granted)
- Hats and coats (if you wear these items, you should take them off before you step into the courtroom)
Even if you do not say a single word in court, your attire
and what you choose to wear can still speak volumes to a Judge and jury. If
you are unsure of an article of clothing, then you should not wear it. At O’DonnellLaw Center, it’s important to us that you are prepared for court and that you
feel confident. When we work with our clients, we make sure you know exactly what to expect when you go to court.
We Carry Your Burden ~ You Carry On With Life.
Disclaimer: No attorney-client relationship is created by the publication of this blog.
The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising.
Phone: (573) 552-0317
O'Donnell Law Center, LLC
1026 Palisades Blvd. Suite 3
Osage Beach, MO 65065
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