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What Should I Wear to Court in New Orleans?

Most people have never been to court in their life and even less know exactly what is appropriate to wear. Crescent City Law makes sure that each of our clients are prepared for their first appearance in court and provides each with some advice and tips on court etiquette. Here are just a few things to keep in mind when making your court appearances in Orleans Parish, Jefferson Parish, St. Tammany Parish, St. Bernard Parish or anywhere else in Louisiana.

What is the Dress Code for Court Appearance?

When preparing to appear in court, you should always keep in mind that you must respect all others in the court, especially the judge. Therefore, you should dress respectfully. If you attend church, wear what you would wear to church. You can dress comfortably, as long as it is not distracting to anyone, and is respectful. If you are a man, do not wear a hat unless it is for religious purposes. Jewelry, on men and women, should be minimal. Do not wear sunglasses unless you have to wear them for medical purposes.

Men: Do not wear jeans. Make sure your hair is washed, and if you have long hair, make sure it is neat. If you can help it, make sure to wear loafers or dress shoes of some sort. Tennis sneakers, sandals or flip-flops will not be taken seriously. If you have any tattoos, try to cover them. They are a distraction. Wear a shirt with a collar—either a golf shirt or an oxford. Wearing a tie is preferred.

Women: Make sure your hair is washed and neat. Unless you have to wear a hat for religious purposes, you should not wear a hat. This will cover your face and eyes and the judge wants to see you. Your makeup and jewelry should be minimal and conservative. If you wear a dress or skirt, they should be business casual and not something you would wear out to a club on the weekend. It should not be see-through. It is also acceptable to wear slacks or a pants suit. You should wear a shirt or dress that has sleeves, or cover your shoulders with a sweater or jacket. Covering tattoos applies to women as well.

If you or a loved one is appearing in court while incarcerated, please make arrangements to have appropriate clothes and shoes available for you on the day of your hearing. The court has some clothes to loan on a first come, first served basis.

What Behavior is Expected of You in Court

The most important thing to remember when appearing in court is that you must respect everyone you encounter, whether they work there or not. You never know who is going to be instrumental in your case. You should try to stay focused and attentive as you may be spoken to. If you appear in court with a Crescent City Law attorney, he will make sure you are in the right places at the right times. With that said, you should arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled court appearance.

While you are before the judge, you should remain seated when told to be seated, and stand when told to stand. You should stand when the judge enters the room. You should also keep your hands and feet still while seated, no matter how nervous you are.

Listening is an important part of appearing in court. The judge may speak directly to you, your lawyer may speak to you, and the opposing lawyer may speak to you. You should know and understand what each person is saying. Even if you aren’t being directly spoken to, it is important to listen.

If you are addressing the judge, you should use the phrases “your honor,” “sir” or “ma’am” to speak to him or her only. This is out of respect. Speak clearly, and loud enough for everyone to hear you. If you are unsure of how to respond to a question, you can look at the judge and the judge will give you further direction.

What Should I Bring to Court?

When you come to court, please bring your subpoena. Please bring documents that support your case or show you’ve been working on diversion, probation, or pre-sentencing assignments. Be organized! Most courthouses only allow you to bring your paperwork, wallet and keys into the building, so you should leave your phone, knives, guns, drugs, cigarettes and lighters in your car. If you don’t arrive by car, leave these items at home. If you bring one of these items by accident, check with your bonding company to see if they’ll allow you to store it with them.

Who Should Come With Me to Court?

For most hearings, you should come to court by yourself or with one loved one. Many courtrooms are smaller than your think and have less seating than you imagine. Therefore, loved ones are often asked to wait outside of the courtroom. If you have children who are school aged or younger, please arrange for them to be with a babysitter on the day of your court hearing.

The exception to this is trial. When it is your day for trial, please bring whoever you want, especially friends and family who can be witnesses on your behalf. It is probably not advisable to bring your children that day, but the rules are much different for trial days than other days.

Contact a Local Attorney to Help you in Court

Your criminal defense lawyer is present to defend you, ensure that your rights are not being violated, and work to fight for your case. If you have any additional questions as to how to act or what to wear in your court appearance, feel free to contact Crescent City Law at (504) 264-9492 or you can e-mail them here. They are also available nights and weekends if you must ask a last minute question.

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