If you’re like many people, you’ve never been through the legal system before – so what are you supposed to wear to court? Your criminal defense attorney will be happy to help you make the right choices, but here’s a quick run-down so you know what you can (and can’t) wear in the courtroom.
What Should You Wear to Court in Wisconsin?
When you’re going to court for a criminal case, it’s important that you show the judge in your case that you respect the court. That means you should wear clothing that shows you care about your situation. You don’t have to wear a formal suit or a fancy dress, but you do have to present yourself respectably. Think about wearing something you could wear to a job interview and you’re on the right track.
Let’s start with what you can’t wear. Many courts have a dress code, but even if the court you’re going to doesn’t have one, don’t wear:
- A hat
- Shorts
- Tank tops or revealing shirts
- Sandals or exposed bare feet
- T-shirts (especially those with drug or criminal references)
Generally, you can wear:
- A suit (including pantsuits for women)
- Slacks
- Khakis
- Jeans, if they’re all you have
- A work uniform, if it is the nicest clothing you have
- A dress you could wear to a job interview
- A collared shirt
- A shirt with no collar but long sleeves, if it’s all you have
- A button-down shirt with a tie
- A skirt and conservatively styled top
- A blouse, sweater or casual dress shirt
Loungewear and gym clothes aren’t acceptable for court. Generally, you should try to dress as if you are going to see someone you want to impress – like a prospective employer, your significant other’s parents whom you haven’t met yet, or your pastor. If you don’t have formal clothing, semi-formal or even casual clothing is okay, as long as it’s clean and wrinkle-free.
Related: Should you talk about your case before you go to court?
Are You Due for a Court Appearance?
When you go to court, you’re entitled to go with a lawyer by your side. If you’ve been charged with a crime, whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony, we may be able to help you. Call us at 414-383-6700 now to schedule your free consultation with an experienced attorney now.
