What Should I Wear to My First Court Appearance in Indiana?
Zach Baber • July 22, 2025
First impressions matter, especially in the courtroom.
If you’ve been scheduled for your first court date in Indiana, you may be wondering what you’re supposed to wear.
It’s a common question, and it matters more than most people think.
At Baber & Baber, P.C., we’ve seen how showing up prepared, including what you wear, can make a difference in how the judge and courtroom staff perceive you.
Whether you're in Columbia City, Fort Wayne, or any other city in Indiana, dressing the right way can send the right message.
This post breaks down what to wear (and what not to wear) to your initial court hearing in Indiana.
Why Your Appearance Matters in Court
Your clothing is a nonverbal message.
Whether fair or not, the way you present yourself affects how seriously others take you - including the judge, prosecutor, and court staff.
A respectful appearance shows the court that:
- You take the process seriously
- You’re showing responsibility
- You understand the gravity of the situation
This doesn’t mean you need to rent a suit.
It just means clean, conservative, and appropriate.
(Charged with a crime in Indiana? Here are 5 mistakes to avoid.)
What to Wear to Court: Simple Guidelines
Men:
- Button-down shirt or polo
- Dress pants or khakis
- Closed-toe shoes (polished if possible)
- Neatly groomed facial hair (if applicable)
- Blouse or sweater
- Slacks or a knee-length skirt
- Closed-toe shoes or low heels
- Avoid flashy or revealing clothing
- Minimal makeup and jewelry
- Shorts
- Graphic t-shirts or tank tops
- Pajamas, sweats, or athletic wear
- Hats, sunglasses, or hoods
- Flip-flops or slides
- Clothing with offensive language or logos
BONUS TIP: Don't chew gum in Court. Many Judges hate this.
(Charged with an OWI in Whitley County? Here's a free guide to let you know what to expect.)
If you wouldn’t wear it to a professional interview, don’t wear it to court.
Your goal is to look like someone who is prepared, respectful, and ready to handle the situation responsibly.
What If I Don’t Own “Nice” Clothes?
That’s okay, just do your best.
Remember: judges don’t expect designer labels. They expect effort and respect.
If you're unsure, ask your attorney or call the court ahead of time for their dress code guidance.
Courtroom Behavior Matters, Too
Dressing appropriately is just one part of a good first impression.
While you’re there:
- Turn off your phone (many courthouses don't allow cellphones at all, including Whitley County)
- Don’t chew gum
- Stand when the judge enters
- Speak clearly and respectfully
- Follow the courtroom's instructions
(Do you have a consultation scheduled with an attorney? Here are some questions you should always ask.)
First Court Date in Columbia City, Whitley County?
We know how stressful the process can be, especially if it’s your first time in the legal system.
At Baber & Baber, P.C., we help clients navigate every step - from what to expect
to how to prepare.
And yes, that includes what to wear.
Need legal guidance for your upcoming hearing?
Call us at (260) 244-4422 or visit bradbaberatty.com to schedule a consultation.
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Learn when to contact a criminal defense attorney in Columbia City, Indiana - whether you're arrested, charged, or just being questioned by police.
Facing a first DUI in Warsaw, IN? Baber & Baber, P.C. DUI Attorney can help. Call (260) 244-4422 or click here to protect your future.
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Facing your first court appearance in Whitley County? Learn what to expect, what to say, and how to prepare for your initial hearing in Indiana.
If it happened in Columbia City, South Whitley, or anywhere else in Whitley County, understanding what to expect can help ease anxiety and protect your future. This article breaks down what an OWI charge means, what happens next, and how to move forward. What Is an OWI in Indiana? In Indiana, OWI (also known as DUI in some states) generally means operating a vehicle while: Your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher You are under the influence of drugs or alcohol You have a Schedule I or II controlled substance in your system There are also enhanced penalties for BAC levels of 0.15% or higher or if a minor was in the car at the time of arrest. What Happens After an OWI Arrest in Whitley County? Arrest and Booking You will most likely be arrested on the spot, taken to the Whitley County Jail, and required to submit to a chemical test. License Suspension Failing a chemical test typically leads to an administrative license suspension. Refusing the test can lead to a longer license suspension. Initial Hearing Within days of your arrest, you’ll attend an initial hearing at Whitley Superior Court where charges are formally read. You’ll plead guilty or not guilty (most people plead not guilty at this stage, even if they intend to resolve the case). Pre-Trial Conference Usually scheduled 4 to 8 weeks later. This is when your attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor about plea agreements or alternative resolutions. Possible Outcomes Diversion or deferral programs (especially for first-time offenders) Plea agreement (reduced charges or penalties) Trial (if no agreement is reached) Potential Penalties for OWI in Indiana Penalties vary depending on the facts of the case and your prior history. Here are some possibilities: Jail time Community service Drug and alcohol counseling Additional license suspensions Fines, Court costs, and fees Will I Definitely Lose My License? Possibly. License suspension is one of the most common consequences. However, your attorney may be able to help you: Request specialized driving privileges (formerly known as hardship licenses) Challenge the suspension Reduce the length of suspension through a plea agreement Should You Get a Lawyer for an OWI in Whitley County? Yes. The stakes are high, and the process is complex. A defense attorney can: Review the legality of the stop and arrest Negotiate for reduced penalties or diversion Represent you in hearings and trial Help protect your license and minimize long-term consequences Final Thoughts An OWI arrest in Whitley County doesn’t have to define you. With the right legal support, it’s possible to move forward, protect your rights, and limit the impact on your future. If you’re facing OWI charges, educate yourself and seek guidance early. Baber & Baber, P.C. is based in Columbia City and serves clients across Whitley County and Northeast Indiana. Call 260.244.4422 or click here to schedule a consultation . Whitley County OWI Defense | Columbia City Criminal Lawyers | Northeast Indiana DUI Attorneys This article is not meant as specific legal advice and is only meant as general education.
Whether you're facing a misdemeanor or a Level 6 felony, knowing the process can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary mistakes. Step 1: Arrest and Booking Most cases start with an arrest. You’ll likely be taken to the Whitley County Jail for booking, where your fingerprints, photo, and information will be collected. Depending on the charge and circumstances, you may be released on bond or you may remain in custody until your first court date. Step 2: Initial Hearing This is your first appearance in front of a judge. It usually happens within a few days of your arrest. Here’s what typically happens during an initial hearing in Whitley Superior Court: Formal reading of your charges Advisement of your rights Opportunity to enter a plea (almost always “Not Guilty” at this stage—even if you did it) Opportunity to ask for a public defender or inform the court that you’ll hire your own attorney Bond review or request for bond reduction, especially if you're still in jail Why plead “Not Guilty”? Even if you believe you’re guilty, entering a "Not Guilty" plea preserves your ability to: Review the evidence against you Negotiate a potential plea deal Avoid waiving important rights too early Step 3: Pre-Trial Conference After the initial hearing, your case will be set for a pre-trial conference, usually 4 to 8 weeks later. This is a scheduled meeting between your defense attorney and the prosecutor to: Negotiate a plea agreement Discuss possible resolutions Exchange discovery (evidence) Decide whether the case will go to trial In some situations, if you’re representing yourself, you’ll speak directly with the prosecutor. This is one of the many reasons why having legal representation is strongly recommended. Step 4: Trial or Change of Plea If no agreement is reached at the pre-trial conference, one of two things may happen: Trial Date Set: You’ll prepare for trial and argue your case before a judge or jury. Change of Plea Hearing: If a plea deal is reached, this hearing will be scheduled for you to formally plead guilty in front of the judge and receive your sentence. There is also a chance a second pre-trial conference will be scheduled. These next steps are typically scheduled 4 to 8 weeks after your first pre-trial conference. Step 5: Sentencing and Court Obligations If you’re found guilty or take a plea deal, sentencing will occur either immediately or about a month later. After sentencing, the court may impose several conditions, which could include: Probation Mandatory counseling or classes Community service Fines and court costs No-contact orders Check-ins with a probation officer Random drug testing (in some cases) Failing to meet these conditions can result in a violation and possible jail time, so it's important to take them seriously. Final Thoughts The legal process in Whitley Superior Court can feel complex, but it follows a predictable structure. From arrest to resolution, each step gives you opportunities to protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome. If you’ve been charged in Whitley County and aren’t sure what to do next, Baber & Baber, P.C. is here to help. We’ve represented hundreds (close to thousands) of clients in Whitley Superior Court and know how to navigate the system with strategy and care. 📍 Based in Columbia City | Serving Whitley County and Northeast Indiana 📞 Call 260.244.4422 or 🌐 Click here to schedule a consultation online. This article is not meant as specific legal advice and is only meant for general educational purposes.
