When you must appear in court, Amato Family Law will have you prepared. You will know what to expect and how to handle the events of the day, whether it’s a brief settlement conference or a day of trial. We understand that even with this preparation, court days can be nerve wracking and inconvenient and even the small matters may loom large in your mind. Having the answers to some of those day to day questions may help calm your nerves and make for a better day in court.
One of the questions we are regularly asked is how to dress for a court appearance. While this may seem an insignificant issue, sub conscious first impressions play a significant role in decision making. Rather than risk making a provocative first impression on the Judge, the Guardian Ad Litem, or even on the other lawyer, dress conservatively. Business casual attire is appropriate. Consider dressing to cover any tattoos and remove piercings other than ordinary earrings. Remember when entering the court house you must pass through a metal detector. Clothing with metal, such as belts, shoes with metal trim or toes, and even some jewelry will have to be removed. If you want to avoid this hassle, wear clothing without metal. Climate control in the court house is unpredictable at any time of year. You may want a jacket or sweater even in the summer. If you carry a pocket knife or other similar item do not to bring it to court. You cannot bring these items into the court house and the court staff will not hold them for you.