Appearance Matters: Tips for Preparing for a Court Hearing

There are plenty of reasons why you might be required to attend a court hearing, try as you might to avoid it. You might be getting a divorce, suing for medical malpractice, or settling a custody dispute. Going to court can be extremely intimidating, especially when you've been wrong and are seeking compensation. If you're working with a personal injury lawyer and preparing for a court appearance, here's what you need to know.

Dress professionally

What you wear sends a message to the courtroom and the judge. If you show up in sweatpants and a messy bun, you're letting him or her know that you don't really care about this case (even if you do). You want to dress professionally and demonstrate that you respect the court and its proceedings. A pair of womens ankle pants and a blouse is professional enough without being over the top (you don't want to dress nicer than your lawyer). Make sure you have clothes that fit perfectly and look great on you. Pants should fit nicely at the waist and jackets shouldn't pinch or bunch over your chest.

You'll also need items that are comfortable and fit well. You don't want to be adjusting a dress or skirt zipper while sitting in a courtroom. If you don't typically wear dress clothes, you may need to take a shopping trip before your court date. Look for items in neutral colors and pair your outfit with subdued accessories. You shouldn't show up in court wearing statement jewelry and a bright, patterned dress. Stick to the basics. Feeling at ease in the courtroom will be easier if you're wearing something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Know what to expect

Your outfit will help you look professional, but you'll also want to know what to expect so you can appear at ease. If you're sweating, trembling, or showing other signs of extreme nervousness, you might unintentionally sway the judge or jury's favor away from you. You also may get so nervous that you forget what you're supposed to do. Missing a crucial point of your defense while on the stand could cost you the case. Hiring a personal injury attorney to represent you is an important decision. He or she will prepare your case by examining medical bills and medical records and will offer you crucial legal advice.

If you've been hurt in a car accident or as the result of medical neglect, a personal injury lawyer will help you present a strong case in court. Winning a personal injury case will provide you with money for damages caused, so if you're the victim of a car accident and have suffered a serious injury, you'll want to work with an experienced lawyer. He or she will help you know what to expect from small claims court if it comes to that. Your attorney will prepare you for the big day and you'll look and feel much more confident when you know what's going to happen.

Defer to your lawyer while there

It might be your first day in court, but (ideally) it's not your attorney's. He or she has been there before and knows what to expect. If you're not sure what's going on or what you're meant to do, ask your lawyer. He or she will help you know when to answer important questions and when to stay quiet. Your lawyer has your best interest at heart, so don't be afraid to trust him or her. You should be able to rely on the professionals while you're in the courtroom.

If you're headed to court, don't panic. Look professional, know what to expect, and take your lawyer's advice. His or her experience will help you win your case.