At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP our attorneys take pride in providing clients with compassionate and unwavering legal representation. We understand the complexities of the legal system in Long Island personal injury attorney. We are each personally committed to helping our clients achieve the most favorable outcome possible.
One of our founding attorneys, Richard Jaffe, has handled countless accident and personal injury cases over the years, and has recovered numerous million-dollar and multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements for victims and their families. Throughout the course of his successful career, Jaffe has taken many cases to court, making him intimately familiar with all aspects of the civil justice system.
One of the many things he has learned from his courtroom experience is the importance of dressing the part when going to court. This one action on its own can make a significant difference in how you appear to the judge and the jury. To share his wisdom, the firm has created a new infographic advising people about how to dress for court.
Tips on What You Should – and Shouldn’t – Wear to Court
There are no documented or ironclad rules on what an individual should or shouldn’t wear to court. There is, however, basic common sense. If you want to make a good impression in court, here are some simple tips about how you should dress:
Men should wear either a suit and tie, or long pants and a long-sleeve button-down shirt with a collar.- Women should wear either a nice dress, conservative pantsuit or a tasteful blouse and slacks.
- When it comes to jewelry, less is more. The same goes for piercings.
- Nails should be clean and neatly trimmed.
- Closed-toe, conservative shoes are the most appropriate.
- Hair should be clean and neatly groomed. Long hair should be tied back.
- Basic hygiene is crucial. Makes sure you brush your teeth, shower, put on deodorant, shave, get a haircut and wear only conservative makeup.
- Tattoos should be covered up.
Flip-flops, sandals, stiletto heels, exercise wear, beachwear, crop tops, strapless dresses, clothes that are too revealing, T-shirts with printed logos or slogans, cut-off jeans, baseball caps, ill-fitting clothes and shorts are all examples of inappropriate courtroom attire.
Do not go into court without having showered or attended to basic hygiene. You are not going to court to make a statement, you are going to court to represent a legal claim and argue your case. You want to look your best.
Why It Is So Important to Dress the Part
Your case is a serious matter. If it weren’t, you and your lawyer would not be going to court. For this reason, it is important to dress properly when making a courtroom appearance.
You do not necessarily need to wear a suit and tie, or a dress with heels, but you do want to dress in a clean, professional manner to present a favorable image. You also want the judge, jury and everyone else in the courtroom to take you seriously.
Dressing appropriately for court is one simple way to show your respect for the legal system and the pending court proceedings.
If you are scheduled to go to court and are wondering what to wear, we hope you will check out our complete “What to Wear to Court” resource guide and use the information we have provided to assist you in making a good impression.
