Dress conservatively and neatly — something you’d wear to church, a job interview, or a formal work event.

Generally avoid

  • Shorts, athletic wear, or anything too casual (most courts won’t even let you in wearing shorts)
  • Revealing, tight, or overly flashy clothing
  • Visible tattoos or excess jewelry — cover or remove where you can
  • Strong cologne or perfume, or the smell of smoke or alcohol
  • Sunglasses or hats indoors

Good options

  • A suit, sports coat, or a button-down shirt with slacks
  • A conservative dress, blouse and slacks, or a business suit
  • Closed-toe, conservative shoes
  • Neat, recently groomed hair

Courtroom etiquette

  • Turn your phone off completely.
  • Sit up straight, pay attention, and take notes.
  • Address the judge as “Your Honor,” and speak clearly and slowly.
  • Arrive early, and don’t leave the courtroom without permission.
  • Bring anything you might need — the judge won’t wait for you to go get it.