What Should I Wear to Magistrates’ Court?

What you wear to court might seem like a small detail — but it can make a big difference in how you're perceived. Magistrates don’t expect designer suits, but they do notice effort, attitude, and respect for the setting.

Dressing smartly shows the court that you take the process seriously. For men, a shirt and trousers is usually enough. You don’t need a tie or jacket, but avoid anything scruffy, torn, or offensive. For women, smart casual clothing is fine — steer clear of revealing outfits, slogans, or anything that might seem inappropriate in a formal environment.

This applies even if you're just attending a brief hearing. First impressions matter. You don’t want to give the impression that you don’t care or that you’re treating it casually. If you're representing yourself, appearance becomes even more important, as you're standing directly in front of the court.

Magistrates often form an early view based on body language and presentation. How you dress won’t decide your guilt — but it may affect how your words and actions are received.

If you're unsure what else can influence the outcome, it's worth reading common magistrates court mistakes or exploring how to prepare for a trial in magistrates court. A little preparation goes a long way.

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