Your counsel has given you plenty of good advice on preparing for your legal deposition. You know that you must be polite and respectful, avoid interruptions, and speak clearly on the details of your story. But now that you have prepared your testimony, you’re wondering how else you will be judged in the courtroom—and one of the biggest factors influencing the jury will be your appearance.
While how you look and what you wear doesn’t necessarily tell the jury everything about you, your appearance will nevertheless play a significant role in how you are perceived.
Important Guidelines on What to Wear to an Upcoming Deposition:
Tips for Men
- Start fresh. Your hair should be neatly brushed and any facial hair should be shaved or trimmed. Avoid using too much cologne or wearing jewelry. If in doubt about their appropriateness, remove any piercings and cover any tattoos.
- Think business casual. In most cases, slacks (black, brown, or khaki) and a long-sleeved dress shirt are the best option for a deposition.
- Not too casual. Do not wear jeans, shorts, sneakers, sandals, or head wear. Long pants, dress shoes, and a belt or suspenders are top choices.
- Size matters. Your clothing should be clean and fit well. Avoid anything too tight or too baggy.
- If in doubt, wear a suit. Suits are always acceptable attire for men in court. Make sure the jacket and pants match and the shirt and tie are not too loud or distracting.
Tips for Women
- Keep it conservative. To keep the amount of visible skin to a minimum, avoid spaghetti straps, off-the-shoulder tops, or thin materials. Women opting to wear dresses or skirts should also wear pantyhose.
- Consider pants. A women’s suit or slacks and a blouse may be a better choice for women who are not comfortable in dresses.
- Avoid distractions. Your clothing, hair, makeup, nail polish, and accessories should all be neat and muted in color. Anything flashy or provocative can distract the jury from your testimony.
- Choose sensible footwear. Always wear flat or low-heeled shoes, avoiding high heels, sandals, and open-toed shoes.
Above all, remember that you want to be taken seriously and make a good impression. If your outfit does not inspire confidence and trust in the mirror, it’s not going to do it in the courtroom.
For more tips on preparing for your deposition, browse our related links or visit our video depositions page to find out if you could benefit from our testimony recording services.
