Dress Code

It is extremely important to look your best in court.  The saying "First impressions are usually the best  impression" work in the courtroom.  You must look your very best for the judge and jury.   It psychologically helps you in court with your case and can heighten your chances of winning (or getting what you want) if you look like you are serious about the proceedings and play the part.  

People who go to court in shorts and sandals (which is not allowed) will not get the same treatment that a person in a suit or nice dress would receive.  It looks, at least to the court that you have no interest in being there and that is looked at as disrespect to the court.   The following is proper dress code for the sexes:

For Men

• A dark suit is preferred.   If a suit is not available, then  slacks and a white shirt and tie at the minimum!
• No Sunglasses - it's not sunny in the courtroom
• Dress shoes (NEVER WEAR SNEAKERS IN A COURTROOM, PERIOD)
• Hair well groomed and neat.  If you have long hair, make sure it is tied back and combed back.
• Don't bathe yourself in strong cologne.  This isn't a club and no one wants the distracting smell of another in court.
• Jewelry: one ring (wedding band) and a watch, if you have either.

The point here is you want the judge and/or the jury deciding your case to look at you with respect no matter what family law issue you are litigating.

For Women

• A nice dress or women's business suit.  At the minimum, a blouse and a skirt that is NO MORE THAN 2 inches above the knee.
• Panty hose
• Dress shoes or heels
• Hair neatly groomed
• Jewelry:  Same as for men.  A ring and a watch.  Nothing else.
• Perfume:  Again nothing that is too strong and don't bathe in it. 
• Nail Polish:  Keep it simple.  Colors that are not acceptable are neon's and brightly colored nails.  If you can avoid it, don't wear any polish beyond a clear coat or possibly the French manicure is acceptable.

Again, why not make a good first impressiong to the judge & the jury?  When you look proper, you gain more respect.

Etiquette

Language

This is probably the most abused item in court besides dress.  Again you must remember you are not at a party with your friends.  You are in a courtroom.  Speak English as correctly as you are able.  Use of slang or expletives is not going to help you in any way.

Additional Etiquette

• Be punctual - or better yet, be early.
• Do not talk during the proceedings while court is in session.
• DO NOT CHEW GUM
• Don't bring books to read or magazines.
• Don't wear a hat in a courtroom EVER!
• Don't wear sunglasses unless you have a condition that is medically proven to hurt your eyes in light.
• Remain in attendance until excused. All persons sitting before the bar shall remain there during each session and return after recess. Parties and counsel must remain in attendance during jury deliberations; absence waives the right to attend the return of the verdict in a jury trial.
• Dress with dignity.
• Address others only by their titles and surnames, including lawyers, witnesses, and court personnel.
• Avoid approaching the bench. Counsel should anticipate the necessity for rulings and discuss them when the jury is not seated. When a bench conference is unavoidable, get permission first.
• Hand to the clerk, not the judge or reporter, all things for examination by the judge.
• Stand when the judge or jury enters or leaves the courtroom.
• Make no side-bar remarks.
• Request the use of easels, light boxes, and other equipment well in advance so that they may be set up while the Court is not in session.
• Do not have your cell phone on - turn it off.

By following these basic simple rules and procedures, you greatly enhance your chances of getting what you want in court.