What Should I Wear to Court?

Going to court can be a nerve-wracking experience. There is often a lot to think about, expecially if you are expecting to give evidence.

Ordinarily, people have never been to court before and so they worry about basic things like what to call the Judge, where to sit in court, and what to wear.

Ultimately, what you wear is unlikely to be important as long as it is clean, and smart.

Men do not need to wear a suit, or a tie. Judges understand that not everyone owns a suit and tie, and that some people travel to court from their day jobs and don’t have an opportunity to change their clothes.

Women do not need to wear anything specific either: for example it is not a requirement for women to wear trousers (rather than a skirt) or heels (rather than flat shoes).

If you are unsure what to wear to court:

• choose clothing that is comfortable. You need to be able to focus on what is happening in the court room, and not be worrying about clothes that are too tight, or shoes that are rubbing blisters.

• choose clothing that is relatively modest. You want the Judge to be paying attention to your case, not being distracted by your clothing. Avoid bright colours, bold patterns, and revealing outfits.

• ensure your clothing is clean. It goes without saying that stained clothing or muddy shoes will not create a good impression.

• ensure your clothing is ironed. Even a Savile Row suit looks bad if it’s creased.

• choose clothing that is relatively formal. For example, a collared shirt will look better than a T-shirt, and trousers will look better than jeans.

• do not wear shorts.

• do not wear flip flops, sandals, sliders, crocs, etc.

• do not wear a hat.

• do not wear sports clothing, such as football shirts.