Impress Phoenix Municipal Court Lawyers
Going to court is serious and your attire should be too. You don’t have to rent a tuxedo or wear your fanciest dress, but don’t wear tattered jeans, yoga pants, tank tops, or other informal attire either. When in doubt, opt for business-casual to make a better impression on the judge.
If you’re appearing in court with a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer on charges, your lawyer will also prompt you to dress appropriately. Reason being, dressing well shows a sign of respect to the court and the judge hearing your case. It never hurts to be seen in a more favorable light.
Dress Nice for Court
Business casual never goes out of style. Suits are the best choice for men. However, if you don’t own a suit dress slacks with a button-up shirt, sweater or sport jacket over a nice shirt will do too.
For women, a pant or skirt suit, suitable knee-length dress or knee-length skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse works. Make sure that you avoid miniskirts and any dress or top that is skin tight or requires going braless.
Both sexes should wear clean, presentable and sensible shoes; no flip flops or overly high heels. If you must wear jeans, make sure they’re in good condition without holes or frayed edges and top them with a dress shirt covered with a sweater or blazer.
Also, avoid shocking, over-the-top colors and gaudy accessories. You may even consider removing non-traditional piercings and covering tattoos, when possible.
Definite Courtroom Fashion No-Nos
Most states expect certain standards when you appear in court. While Arizona courts don’t have any rules governing what must be worn in court, as we’ve stated before, business attire is considered most appropriate.
Arizona courtrooms do, however, have rules that specifically ban certain attire, which includes:
- Hats
- Bandanas
- Shorts
- Tank tops
- Sunglasses (unless medically necessary)
You’re also required to wear shoes and a shirt. The courts prohibit clothing displaying offensive slogans or pictures.
If you come to court wearing inappropriate attire, the court may ask you to change clothes. This could cause you to miss or postpone an important appearance.
Hire Award-Winning Phoenix Municipal Court Lawyers
Ultimately, what you wear to court is up to you. However, any experienced Phoenix criminal defense lawyer should advise you on the potential effects of your chosen attire. If you’ve been arrested in Maricopa County for DUI or other criminal charges, contact experienced criminal defense lawyers at Lerner and Rowe, 24/7 at 602-667-7777. Or, visit us at our Phoenix law office located at 2701 E. Camelback Rd., #140, Phoenix, AZ from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.
We offer affordable payment plans and the best possible defense against any criminal charge.