If you’re going to court for a domestic battery hearing, you need to know that first impressions count… a lot. You want to look your best: clean-shaven, neat, and as if you care about the outcome of your case.

The general rule is to dress conservatively for court. Whether you’re a man or a woman, it’s important that your choice of clothing doesn’t distract the judge or others in the courtroom. The Circuit Court of Cook County, which is located at 555 West Harrison Street in Chicago, has a dress code

What to Wear to Court for a Domestic Battery Hearing

Remember that court is a formal place. You should dress as nicely as possible while taking into account your financial circumstances. You don’t necessarily need to go buy a new suit or pantsuit, but you do want to show that you respect the courtroom and that you’re taking the matter seriously.

If you’re wearing shorts or something similarly casual, you may not be allowed to enter the courtroom.What to Wear to Court in Chicago for a Domestic Battery Case

So what is acceptable?

  • Suit with tie
  • Sports coat
  • Long-sleeved button-down shirt with a collar
  • Long pants
  • Dress
  • Woman’s business suit
  • Conservative pantsuit
  • Conservative top and long pants
  • Closed-toe shoes

A good rule of thumb is that if you could wear it to the funeral of someone you care about, it’s probably okay for court.

What NOT to Wear to Court

Again, first impressions are important—and because of that, there are certain things you should never wear to court, including:

  • Sleeveless shirts
  • Muscle shirts
  • Sexy or risqué clothing (tight tops, short skirts, revealing necklines)
  • Sundresses or strapless dresses
  • Crop tops
  • Shirts with spaghetti straps
  • T-shirts
  • Athletic clothing (including baseball hats)
  • Jeans, unless they are the only long pants you own
  • Clothes that show your underwear
  • Shorts or cut-offs

Shoes:

  • Flip-flops
  • Athletic shoes
  • Spike heels
  • Open-toed shoes

Other Tips for Making a Good Impression at Court

Make sure you shave and shower before court. Comb your hair, and if it’s long, tie it back (don’t show up with a hairnet or curlers, either). Ensure that your fingernails are clean and that you’ve brushed your teeth, as well.

The key is to wear something you’d wear to church, to work or to a social gathering. For the most part, things that would be okay there will be fine for court. If you’re not sure, talk to your Chicago domestic violence defense lawyer to find out whether you’re good to go.

Do You Need Help With a Domestic Violence Defense?

If you’re being accused of domestic battery or aggravated domestic battery, talk to a domestic violence defense lawyer in Chicago as soon as possible.

Call us at 847-920-4540 or get in touch with us online. We’ll give you a free domestic violence defense case evaluation so you know exactly where you stand.