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What to Wear to Court

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Why Your Appearance Matters

We would like to believe that what we wear to court has no relevance to those entrusted with determining our fate. But we are being judged, fairly or unfairly. Though Massachusetts is characterized as a “liberal” state, judges, prosecutors and jurors are assessing our appearance for clues to our character, competence, and credibility. This is no less true for your criminal defense lawyer, who must – or at least should – be well groomed to address the court or a jury. To judges who made the effort dress and comport themselves “judicially,” your refusal to show respect, or least regard, for the proceedings over which they preside, by wearing a concert t-shirt may affect their view of you. Since your criminal defense lawyer will be speaking on your behalf and you, therefore, may never directly address the judge, your appearance will offer him the only means to appraise your temperament, trustworthiness, and tendencies.

If you choose to stand your ground and wear clothing that many would deem inappropriate, we commend you. It takes guts to insist that your individuality be respected. If, however, maximizing your chances of an acquittal or a less onerous punishment is your goal, we offer some advice on selecting the appropriate clothing for your court appearances.

Basics

When appearing in court, we suggest you wear clothing that, while appropriate, you’re comfortable wearing. If you feel afflicted at the mere thought donning a suit, resist any pressure to wear one. Better to appear relaxed than aggrieved by a type of clothing you would otherwise never wear. Nevertheless, your clothing should be minimally appropriate to the occasion, clean, unwrinkled, and free of sports logos, etc. Ideally, your clothing should cover, to the extent possible, any tattoos, piercings and unsightly scars.

Men

If you are a man 35 years or older, consider wearing a suit, preferably a dark grey, brown, or navy blue, or a sports coat. If you are a professional, such as a CEO, banker, lawyer, or accountant, we strongly suggest you wear a suit. Wear a white or light blue shirt, a conservative tie, and comfortable, but conservative leather shoes. No earrings, piercings or dyed hair.

Young Men

Younger male defendants, or those who appear to be under 25 years of age, can wear sweaters over white shirts, together with smartly pressed pants, and a belt.

Women

A female accused of a crime should wear a dress, a skirt or slacks with a conservative blouse or sweater, or a suit. Women, whether criminal defendants or a witnesses, should resist any temptation to wear alluring clothing or clothing that reveals cleavage, a bare back, bare midriff, or bare shoulders. Limit the amount of jewelry you wear to court. Wear no loud or gaudy jewelry.

If you have any questions about your attire, you should consult with your lawyer.

Kevin J. Mahoney is a Cambridge Criminal Defense Lawyer, on-air legal analyst, and published author.

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Testimonials

  • NS, a DUI client,about 1 month ago

    Attorney Mahoney,

    I just wanted to say thank you for such a wonderful and excellent job you did for me. You were quite impressive up there and you really did your homework catching her in a few lies from previous testimony. You are the best! Even though I never want to be in this situation again, if I know anyone I will give them your name.

    Thank Amy for me too! She is a great asset to have in your office! Very pleasant and understanding.

    Again thank you and go Celtics!
     

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  • about 1 month ago

    Kevin Mahoney recently represented me in a case for destruction of property and disorderly conduct. He was extremely thorough and persistent, and despite a great deal of evidence against me, he managed to get the felony charge dropped without having to go to trial.

    I had never been in legal trouble before and had no idea how to proceed, and without his counsel, I am sure that I would have gotten convicted.

    He listened to my specific needs and always acted in my best interest. His knowledge, attention to detail, and general courtroom presence continued to amaze me throughout the entire process.
     

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  • M.K.about 1 month ago

    Dear Attorney Mahoney:

    I wish to express my sincere appreciation for your efforts on my behalf. Your defense was truly outstanding. The court room skills that you demonstrated and legal knowledge were truly incomparable. I’m wishing you the very best in your future endeavors.

    In addition, I ‘m looking forward to viewing the Jello Trial on Court T.V. Let me thank you once again.

     

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  • about 1 month ago

    Attorney Mahoney,

    Is very knowledgeable and very professional. He has just represented me in a case lasting a year and a half, and he made sure I got a fair trial with a fair jury. He kept me well informed about what would be happening in the court room and always had a well thought out defense for any route of attack the D.A. would be planning on.

    My trial took 2 and a half days and after the jury deliberated for approximately 23 minutes they came back with a “Not guilty” verdict. I would recommend Attorney Mahoney to anyone I know, but I sure hope I dont need him again. : ) .
     

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Kevin J. Mahoney’s New Book Coming Soon

The Title IX Sexual Harassment Handbook

"Attorney Mahoney is currently authoring an authoritative and strategy driven compendium on investigating and defending Title IX sexual assault cases for lawyers, students, and universities. The book will be available through James Publishing within months."

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