In court next week...what the hell do I wear?

[WrongPlaceWrongTime]

I've never been in a court so I have no clue to this at all. Don't want to ask my solicitor as it'll cost me £25 to do that!

Is black too formal? I don't have a suit or even work/smart trousers. I'm at a loss. Does it even matter?

It's the first hearing for divorce if that helps.

It doesn't really matter. I'd suggest something a little more formal than every day - black is fine if that's what you have.

I don't think you need to actually be there. I didn't when I was divorcing.

yes you should be there, and you need the court's permission to be absent. Even though it's the first hearing and it's about gathering information, the court expects people to do their best to reach agreement at every stage, and might ask you and your ex to treat it as an FDR.

What to wear - anything you are comfortable in. Perhaps not minishorts & halterneck, but really - anything that makes you feel comfortable and able to deal with the day.

Court hearing rooms can vary from icy cold air conditioning to warm and stuffy, so think layers.

Last time I was in court I was jeans, trainers and a hoodie. Very classy I know Judge I dont think gave a shit what I wore, it went in my favour.

You wear what is freshly clean and pressed and as respectful as you can make it.

If you don't have a suit or anything formal, fine - many people don't need smart clothes in their lives. If you can't afford a cheap outfit from Asda or a charity shop (or borrow from a mate), then wear your best jeans/cords/whatever but make sure they are clean and your top is tucked in and your hair/makeup is appropriate.

Basically look like you give a damn and do respect the judge and their courtroom.

If it REALLY worries you, then ask if you are able to send a short note to the Judge apologising for the informality of dress, you are there in all seriousness etc.

I go to court every day for my work but I'm not a lawyer or member of court staff.
General etiquette is covered shoulders, closed toe shoes and somber-ish colours. No excessive displays of flesh.
Today I'm wearing black skinny jeans, a cream T-shirt and beige suede biker jacket, with nude flats.
Other days I might wear a black/navy/grey wrap dress (knee length) with either sleeves or a cardi over.
I always wear tights but that's just me.

I certainly do need to be there. My ex wants to treat it as a FDR but there is so much information from him required still that I'm not sure it'll be possible.

Ok, so I have a black tshirt style/tunic type dress thing over trousers? Or sleeveless dresses...are bare shoulders ok or should I wear a cardi? Christ, I live in jeans normally and only have ancient going out clothes which may be too much. Are sandals not ok? I think I'm worried more about this than appearing

Honestly, the court won't mind as long as you don't go in there with a sweary T-shirt on (some people actually do this....)
But if you want to stick to protocol I'd probably wear a dress and cardi. or your trouser/tunic outfit would be fine too.
Don't worry about your toes! Sandals won't cause offence.

Sleeveless dress and cardi is fine.

Best of luck

Black dress and trousers sounds fine.

Just be clean and tidy. The judge will know you don't have a suit-wearing job, so wouldn't expect you to wear one.

If it's any reassurance I've had to do unexpected hearings a few times, and pitched up in my "hiding in my office" outfit of flowery dress and boots. Judge didn't breathe a word.

Apologies Op, ignore me.

Wear what makes you feel confident as that's the most important asset in getting through the process. You are not trying to stun the court or stick two fingers up at the process so whatever gives you that inner extra boost

Thank you everyone. I have a very dark denim smart shift dress and a navy cardigan. Will this be ok with sandals or court shoes?

I'd try not to show too much flesh. So, I'd wear sleeves and avoid any belt skirts or very low necks.
Otherwise, clean and neat.

You might want to look dishevelled to elicit the judge's sympathy, though.

That sounds fine.

For court (been twice) I wore black trousers, plain t-shirt and a linen jacket and thought I looked the part alright.

I was in court recently and wore my black skinny jeans with smart top and cardi and ballet pumps. Lots waiting to go in were in a range of things from hoodies and trainers to smart so it doesn't really matter

That sounds fine. There's no need to wear a suit or anything as the client.

If possible wear tights under the dress no matter how hot the day rather than bare legs.

Nude tights or black?

Oh ffs don't wear tights if it is hot! I sure as hell don't, and I'm a sodding lawyer.

Honestly peple are being completely OTT. All the outfits you describe are fine. The judge couldn't care less. All I ever ask of clients is being clean, not smelly, preferably no midriffs or arse cracks on show, and no crass T shirt slogans.

Of course if you're an investment banker you should wear a suit because he judge knows you have one. Otherwise just wash, brush, iron and turn up.

Oh and take a book. There's a shit load of sitting around like a lemon waiting unless you are very lucky.