A Practical Guide from New Orleans Criminal Defense Attorney Sarah Phillips
If you have an upcoming court date in New Orleans or anywhere in Southeast Louisiana, what you wear matters more than you may think. I know it should not matter, and no one wants to feel judged based on appearance, but in a courtroom setting you are being evaluated the moment you walk through the door.
This guide will give you clear, simple rules on what to wear so you look prepared, respectful, and trustworthy. It is part of our Courtroom Confidence series, where we help you feel more comfortable and confident in court.
Why Your Courtroom Appearance Matters
Judges, prosecutors, police officers, and even jurors notice how you present yourself. They should focus only on the facts of your case, but human nature does not work that way. What you wear can influence how people feel about your credibility, responsibility, and respect for the process.
Our job at Phillips Law is to help you show up as your best self so nothing works against you before you even speak.
The Simple Rule: Clean, Simple Church Clothes
When I say church clothes, I mean the outfit you would feel comfortable wearing in front of your grandmother at church on a Sunday morning.
What Clean Means
Take a shower
Freshly wash your clothes
Be mindful of scents
Do not smell like weed
Go light on perfumes or colognes
Courtrooms are small spaces. Judges and staff are sensitive to strong smells. Showing up smelling like marijuana is the fastest way to get sent to drug court. Whether it is fair or not, it happens.
Grooming Tips
Men should be shaved or neatly groomed.
Women should avoid anything that looks like they are still getting ready. Hair rollers, messy buns, or styling tools should stay at home.
Look finished and intentional.
What Men Should Wear to Court
A clean, pressed collared shirt
Long pants or khakis
Closed toed shoes
A belt if needed
Avoid shorts, slides, tank tops, flip flops, or oversized sagging jeans.
What Women Should Wear to Court
A blouse or modest top
A skirt or dress around knee length
Closed toed shoes
Simple, conservative outfits
Avoid tight mini skirts, low cut tops, short shorts, gym clothes, or very high platform heels. Many courthouses do not allow open toed shoes at all. I have had clients sent home to change because of this.
Clothing to Avoid Completely
Baggy or overly ripped jeans
Graphic shirts with profanity or bold images
Anything referencing drugs, alcohol, or weapons
Tank tops, crop tops, leggings worn as full outfits
Hats or sunglasses inside the courtroom
Anything overly flashy, distracting, or revealing
And please do not wear a shirt with a weapon on it if you are facing a gun charge. I have seen it happen and it is devastating for the attorney trying to help you.
Neutral colors are best. Avoid big logos. Think simple and respectful.
Bringing a Support Person
You can bring a support person if it helps you feel calmer. Bring someone steady and respectful. Not someone who is going to make a scene or walk in smelling like marijuana. Make sure they follow all the same dress and electronic rules.
What to Bring to Court
Your ID
Any necessary legal documents
Nothing electronic including phones, watches, chargers, headphones, earbuds
New Orleans Criminal District Court does not allow phones or electronic devices of any kind. Leave them in your car or with a trusted person outside.
Need Help or Want to Double Check Your Outfit?
If you are an existing Phillips Law client, you can always call us at 504-434-7000 or message us through the Clio portal to run an outfit by your attorney. We are happy to help. It is part of our job.
If you are not yet a client but you think you may need a criminal defense attorney or personal injury attorney in Southeast Louisiana, call us at 504-434-7000. Our intake team will help you schedule a free consultation.
You can also visit our website at www.nolacriminaldefense.com for more resources and blog posts on court preparation and Louisiana law.
Legal Disclaimer
This blog is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading this does not create an attorney client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, always consult with an attorney.
