3 Tips For Dressing For a Court Appearance
At one point in your life, there’s a chance that you’ll need to make an appearance in court. Whether that’s because you’ve been accused of a crime, you’re going through a divorce, or you’re trying to adopt a child, it’s important that you’re able to put your best face forward when dealing with the legal system.
To help you in doing this, it can be very beneficial if you look the part that you’re playing. So to help ensure that you’re able to get the outcome that you’re hoping for, or at least be taken seriously by the justice system, here are three tips for dressing for a court appearance.
Know What To Avoid
One of the first things you should know when planning for a court appearance is the type of attire that you should avoid wearing. By wearing the wrong thing to court, you can make things much harder on yourself than they otherwise would have been.
According to Christopher Coble, a contributor to FindLaw.com, some of the worst things you can wear to court are pajamas or other clothes that are too casual, sandals or flip flops, a hat, or any clothes that give off a negative impression or the opposite impression to what you’re trying to prove. For example, if you’re going to court for drug charges, you won’t want to wear something that has a marijuana leaf on it.
Go With Conservative Looks
Ideally, you should try to wear clothes that are more conservative and professional in their appearance. To help you with these things, Julia Brucculieri, a contributor to the Huffington Post, advises that you think about your court appearance as the most important job interview of your life as far as how you dress.
In general, this will mean that you don’t wear clothes that are too bold or loud, you don’t over-accessorize with unnecessary items, that you avoid sporting clothes with obvious logos, and that you don’t show off too much skin.
Consider Your Overall Style
In addition to the clothes you wear, you’ll also want to consider your overall style before you head into the courtroom.
According to Debrina Washington, a contributor to Very Well Family, this should include things like your hairstyle, your makeup, any tattoos or piercings, and your behavior. By trying your best to present yourself in a professional and conservative manner, you’ll have the best chance of giving off a positive appearance and being taken seriously by the court.
If you’re going to be going to court soon, consider using the tips mentioned above to ensure that you’re dressed appropriately and can show yourself in the best possible light when speaking with those who have so much control over your fate and future.
