What Should I Wear to My First Court Appearance in Indiana?

Zach Baber • July 22, 2025

First impressions matter, especially in the courtroom.

Court dress code example showing proper vs improper attire for a first court date in Indiana with “Court Ready” and “Not Court Ready” labels.

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)

Women:

Blouse or sweater
Slacks or a knee-length skirt
Closed-toe shoes or low heels
Avoid flashy or revealing clothing
Minimal makeup and jewelry

Things for Everyone To Avoid:

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.)

Dress Like You’re Going to a Job Interview

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.

Even a clean, tucked-in shirt and jeans is better than showing up in casual, sloppy, or distracting clothes.

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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