Have you ever wondered what some people were thinking when they got dressed on the day they had to be in court? I am not only referring to respondents but to everyone in general. This also applies to many interpreters in the judicial, medical and community fields who show up for work with attire that leaves a lot to be desired. I remember an interpreter showing up for court in flip flops! WHAT?
I live in the desert but even in Arizona, where the temperatures can reach the 120s mark, one must always look, and behave, like a professional. In case you didn’t now, flip flops are a no no, unless you have broken toes and a doctor’s note. LOL!
Now, let’s talk about attire and address the ladies. Why wear a t-shirt, a mini-skirt, short shorts, a dress or blouse with a pronounced cleavage, or any type of revealing apparel for that matter, or clothing that barely fits you, to appear in front of a judge? If you are thinking that dressing sexy may please the court, please don’t. You could not be further from the truth! If that is the way you think, you may find yourself in front of a female judge who will most likely not appreciate the get up.
There is nothing more embarrassing than being schooled in court about your attire. Certainly, it does not present you in a good light in front of any judge, male or female. For court, a pantsuit or dress suit is the ideal attire; a conservative and business-like look is the best! Excessive makeup or perfume is also unnecessary. After all, you are not going to a party. Look the part and dress appropriately.
To the fellows, please be aware that a hat or cap or any type of headdress is not appropriate for court unless it is part of a religious or cultural attire. Some indigenous people wear traditional indigenous clothing as well as some orthodox religions require the wearing of head garb, such as but not limited to, members of the Jewish, Muslim, Hindi and Greek Orthodox faiths. If you wear a hat, a brim, or a baseball cap style hat, please know to remove it before or upon entering the courtroom. Otherwise, it does not reflect good manners and proper court etiquette in this country. Please be aware of that fact in the United States.
Sweat pants or sweatshirts are not proper attire for court. Neither are jeans, but if you must wear them, wear a dress shirt and, if possible, a jacket. And, if at all possible, a tie.
If you have to bring your children to a hearing, make sure they know how to behave. For example, slouching in the chair or bench is inappropriate; tell your little ones to sit properly and teach them the correct way to act. No running, hollering or shouting is allowed, and they should know that the court is not a playground or park. How are they going to know if you do not communicate it to them? Teach them at an early age. It’s part of your responsibility as a parent to raise children with manners and common courtesy. Don’t bring children in pajamas to the court unless they are babies. Most immigration judges excuse young children after their parents’ initial appearance in court. Make sure they are well-dressed and well-behaved. That can go a long way on your behalf.
Body language is everything and judges are very observant. When appearing in court, try not to let your nerves get the best of you. Nervousness can sometimes cause fidgeting, which means small movements in your hands and feet, which are not always conscious. Try to be aware of that, defendants, respondents and interpreters alike.
Don’t play with your pens or pencils. I once heard a judge disqualified an interpreter for clicking the pen over and over and over again causing a distraction while the judge dictated an order. Don’t cause unnecessary attention to yourself. If you must, make sure your fidgeting does not cause any distractions or interruptions to the court.
If you have to ask yourself if an outfit is right for court, it’s probably not. Dress professionally and look the part. After all, as officers of the court, we should represent it well and give an example to others. Safe travels! Until next time…
The Traveling Interpreter 