Having a DUI charge can be a stressful experience for anyone, but it is important to know what to expect when you go to court. To help ensure that you make the best impression in court, we offer some advice on how to dress for your court appearance.
Our team of experienced DUI attorneys at Stechschulte Nell is here to help guide you through this difficult process and provide you with the best possible outcome.
Preparing for DUI Court: What to Wear
DUI court appearances can be stressful and overwhelming experiences, especially when considering how to dress for the occasion. However, it is important to remember that your appearance in court can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case.
The right outfit can even help establish a tone of respect and responsibility towards the court. Here’s some advice to follow.
What Men Should Wear
We suggest that our male clients wear a suit if they have one since the courtroom is a place where formal is preferred. Further, make sure that the suit fits you well, isn’t wrinkled, and that you have a matching tie. Please leave the dinosaur tie that your child gave you at home, a DUI charge is serious business.
How you look matters, and the judge and jury will take note.
What NOT to Wear
The courtroom isn’t the place to go casually, so we recommend avoiding these:
- T-shirts or tank tops
- Jeans
- Shorts
- Tennis shoes
- Flip flops
- Sunglasses
- Hats
- Ripped or wrinkled clothing
While tattoos and piercings have become commonplace in our society, it is best to coer them during your court appearance. We also advise you to trim your hair and beard so you look as presentable as possible.
Remember; details matter.
What Women Should Wear
We recommend that women follow the same guidelines as men. You want to wear something formal, yet tasteful. Dress like you would for an important business dinner or job interview.
Whatever you decide to wear, whether a pantsuit or a long dress, make sure that it is modest, and don’t wear anything with a plunging neckline. Don’t go overboard with accessories, jewelry, and makeup.
What NOT to Wear
Unfortunately, women are often judged by what they wear and their appearance in court more often than men. Remember, the courtroom is not the place to try to stand out or wear clothing that hugs your curves. You want your clothing to fit well, but not be misconstrued. Ultimately, your goal is to blend in.
We recommend not wearing:
- See-through items
- Any deep cleavage tops
- Form-fitting clothing
- A mini-skirt
- Stiletto heels
- T-shirts or tank tops
- Shorts
- Flip-flops
- Jeans
- Sunglasses
- Full-glam makeup
- Statement jewelry
- Anything where a bra strap shows
Are There Colors That Should Be Avoided?
Overall, you will want to avoid bright colors and patterns, as going to court is solemn and the outcome of your case can have lasting impacts. You don’t want people focusing on what you’re wearing more than the DUI case at hand.
Our attorneys recommend dark gray or navy blue since these are colors that are considered “serious” but they don’t have the negative connotations like the color black can sometimes have in the legal space.
Though you want to look presentable, the plainer your outfit is, the better.
Read More > What Happens at a DUI Trial?
We’re On Your Side
Preparing for your DUI court hearing can be daunting, but with the right guidance, you can have peace of mind that you will be as prepared as possible to present yourself respectfully and give the best impression in front of the judge.
Our attorneys at Stechschulte Nell Law are here to help you every step of the way. We will ensure that all of your questions are answered and all aspects of your case are thoroughly discussed before your court date.
Contact us for a FREE DUI case review today at 813-280-1244.
