How to Dress for Court

As society becomes decidedly more casual, there are fewer and fewer occasions that require one to "dress up". Many men nowadays don't even own a suit, since they are so seldom required to wear one. Even traditionally conservative professions such as law and finance have succumb to the business casual trend in most parts of the country.

This is not, however, an article yearning for a suited and well-heeled yesteryear (although life would certainly seem fancier if everyone dressed like the cast of AMC's Mad Men). No, this is a post about how to dress for court.

Court, is one of the few occasions in modern life that still requires one to get "dressed up".

But pump the brakes fashionistas.

Getting dressed up for court is very different than getting dressed up for a fancy cocktail party or swanky fundraiser. Now is not the time to show off your incredible fashion sense, or how you are on top of this season's hottest trends.

Dressing for court means dressing up conservatively.

For the gents, this means a solid dark color suit, white or blue shirt, and a simple conservative necktie.

For the ladies this generally means a suit (either a pant suit or a skirted suit with hose) with a simple conservative blouse. Nothing too low cut or too short. No peep-toe shoes or stilettos.

The image below provides a pretty good example of what I am talking about:

*This is mostly a good example besides the peep-toe shoes

The reason one gets dressed up for court is to show respect to the court. Rule 1.01 of the Mississippi Uniform Chancery Court Rules states that, "All proceedings in the Chancery Court...shall be conducted with due formality and in an orderly and dignified manner." This includes the way in which one dresses for court, with "due formality" and in an "orderly and dignified manner." Rule 1.01 goes on to say that, "The dignity and respect of the Court shall be preserved at all times." You can help to preserve that dignity and respect by dressing appropriately for your day in court.

Jonathan T. Day, Esq. is a Divorce & Family Law attorney serving the Jackson, MS metro-area. You can reach him at (601)-707-8953 or jtd@jonathantday.com.