DUI Charges And Looking Good In Front Of The Judge
Most DUI lawyers advise their clients to look good when they appear in court. Doing so shows that you respect the judge and that you are aware of the seriousness of the situation. Don't make the mistake of thinking that your appearance doesn't matter at your DUI court appearance. Read on to find out what to wear and what to avoid.
Talk to Your Lawyer
Court practices vary from place to place. Some areas have very casual dress standards and some are more formal. Your criminal law attorney knows what is acceptable in your local area. You don't want to show up in jeans and a tee-shirt in a more conservative courtroom filled with others in suits, ties, dress pants, and shirts. Many lawyers used to advise their clients to dress as if for a religious service but many now wear casual wear there so that advice may not be helpful anymore. No matter what you wear, however, make sure it is clean, not worn out, and not wrinkled. Your personal grooming should not be overlooked either. Comb your hair, clean your nails, and don't show up with bad breath.
Courtroom Guidelines
Some courthouses have had to impose appearance rules on visitors and some of those rules are more because of security concerns than appropriateness. Check with your lawyer because many courthouses don't allow people to wear:
- Clothing with images or text about drugs, alcohol, bars, profanity, sex, weapons, violence, or politics
- Headwear of any type unless prescribed by religious practices
Suggestions for Women
Regardless of what you choose, showing a lot of skin is not appropriate in such a serious situation. That means no low-cut tops, very short skirts or dresses, or see-through pieces. Avoid items that are more appropriate for the beach or gym as well. Nice pants are preferable to jeans unless they are dark washed and not distressed/destructed. Dresses or suits are probably not necessary for a DUI appearance but are always appropriate.
Suggestions for Men
Casual pants and a collared shirt are always appropriate, and only wear a tie with a long-sleeved shirt. Wear a belt and don't appear in droopy pants with your underwear exposed. You can also wear a sports jacket with a polo shirt or a dress shirt with or without a tie. Avoid graphic tee shirts, distressed (with holes, torn, etc) jeans, sneakers, and flip-flops. Unfortunately, it needs to be said, no pajamas for men or women in the courtroom.
People that show up looking good may be perceived as being good, having good intentions, and able to rise up from their circumstances. To find out more, speak to a criminal lawyer.
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