Posted in Parental Rights
Your appearance in family court matters more than you might think as a Manhattan Beach, CA family lawyer knows all too well. While your case will ultimately be decided on its merits, first impressions are crucial, and your attire sends a message about how seriously you take the proceedings and your respect for the court. At Skarin Law Group, we advise our clients on courtroom presentation, and proper attire is a fundamental aspect of this preparation.
Why Your Court Appearance Matters
The judge’s perception of you can influence their assessment of your credibility, responsibility, and judgment – all crucial factors in family law cases, especially those involving child custody or support. Your appearance should convey that you are responsible, respectful, and capable of making sound decisions as our attorneys would advise who are part of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. You may not realize that what you wear is super important, and it is often a common mistake in divorce proceedings that many make.
Top 10 Tips For Dressing Appropriately In Family Court
1. Choose Conservative Business Attire
- Men should wear a suit or blazer with dress pants, a collared shirt, and tie
- Women should opt for a conservative suit (pants or skirt), professional dress, or blazer with dress pants
- Stick to neutral colors like navy, gray, or black
- Ensure all clothes are clean, pressed, and in good condition
2. Select Appropriate Footwear
- Wear clean, polished dress shoes
- Women should avoid extremely high heels
- No athletic shoes, flip-flops, or casual sandals
- Ensure shoes are in good condition and comfortable for walking
3. Maintain Professional Grooming
- Hair should be neat and away from your face
- Keep makeup minimal and natural-looking
- Ensure nails are clean and well-maintained
- Fresh shower or bath before court appearance
4. Minimize Jewelry And Accessories
- Keep jewelry subtle and minimal
- Remove visible body piercings (except conservative earrings)
- Avoid noisy jewelry that might be distracting
- Remove sunglasses and place them out of sight
5. Cover Tattoos When Possible
- Use clothing or makeup to cover visible tattoos
- If tattoos cannot be covered, ensure they are not offensive
- Consider long sleeves or high necklines if needed
6. Choose Appropriate Fabrics And Fits
- Avoid anything too tight, revealing, or loose
- Select non-transparent fabrics
- Ensure proper fit around shoulders and waist
- Avoid overly casual materials like denim or jersey
7. Pay Attention To Details
- Check for missing buttons or loose threads
- Ensure clothes are free of stains or damage
- Iron or steam garments to remove wrinkles
- Polish shoes before court appearance
8. Consider Season-Appropriate Attire
- Layer clothing appropriately for temperature changes
- Bring a professional jacket or blazer even in summer
- Avoid heavy winter wear in the courtroom
- Keep rain gear neat and professional
9. Prepare The Night Before
- Lay out clothing and try on complete outfit
- Check for any needed repairs or cleaning
- Have a backup outfit ready if possible
- Set out all accessories and shoes
10. What To Absolutely Avoid
- No jeans, shorts, or t-shirts
- No revealing clothing or low necklines
- No athletic wear or loungewear
- No political messages or controversial symbols
- No excessive perfume or cologne
- No clothing with visible brands or logos
- No hats or casual headwear
Additional Considerations
Electronic Devices
Keep phones silent and out of sight during proceedings. If you need your phone for evidence or communication with your attorney, discuss this in advance.
Personal Comfort
While maintaining a professional appearance is crucial, ensure your clothing choices allow you to remain comfortable during what might be lengthy proceedings. You want to focus on your case, not on physical discomfort.
Weather Considerations
Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly, but remember that many courthouses keep their rooms quite cool. A professional jacket or blazer is always a good addition to your outfit.
Seeking Professional Guidance
We understand that appearing in court can be stressful, and questions about appropriate attire are common — which is why you need a divorce attorney rather than trying to handle your case on your own. Our experienced team can provide guidance not just on what to wear, but on all aspects of courtroom presentation and behavior.
Remember that your appearance is just one part of your court presentation. Combining appropriate attire with proper courtroom etiquette, respectful behavior, and thorough preparation will help present you in the best possible light during your family law proceedings.
Need help preparing for your court appearance? Contact Skarin Law Group today. Our experienced family law attorneys who received a Superb 10.0 rating from Avvo can guide you through every aspect of your case, from proper courtroom attire to complex legal strategy. We’re here to help you present your strongest case and achieve the best possible outcome for your family law matter.
