Quick Contact

Quick Contact
The Law Office of Kathy Black
802 Dominion Drive, Suite 500
Katy, Texas 77450
Phone: 281-398-5546
Fax: 281-398-5184

Tips

At The Law Offices of Kathy Black, we want you to be as successful as possible in family court. We have compiled a resource here to discuss proper dress and etiquette when your case goes before a judge.

Dress code

It is extremely important to look your best in court. First impressions last. A person in shorts and sandals does not get the same treatment as a person in a suit or nice dress. It looks to the court that you have no interest in being there and do not respect the court. For your family’s sake, dress with dignity.

The following is proper dress code for the sexes:

For Men

For Women
  • A dark suit is preferred. If a suit is not available, then slacks and a white shirt and tie at the minimum.
  • No hats or sunglasses
  • Dress shoes—never wear sneakers in a courtroom
  • Well-groomed, neat hair. If you have long hair, make sure it is tied back.
  • No strong cologne
  • Jewelry: one ring (wedding band) and a watch, maximum.
  • A nice dress or women's business suit. At the minimum, a blouse and a skirt that is no more than 2 inches above the knee.
  • Panty hose
  • Dress shoes or heels
  • Hair neatly groomed
  • Jewelry: A ring and a watch. Nothing else.
  • No strong perfume
  • Nail polish: No brightly colored nails. If you can avoid it, do not wear any polish beyond a clear coat or French manicure.

Make a good first impression to the judge and jury. You want them to look at you with respect for any family law issue they are deciding. When you look proper, you gain more respect.

Etiquette

When sitting in family law court, do not rest your elbows on the tables at any given time. Sit up straight and look attentive at all times. Slouching says that you do not care about your case, and the court will treat you that way. Pretend you are on TV in front of the world and you have to look your best.

Language

You are in a courtroom. Speak English as correctly as you are able. The use of slang or expletives works against you.

Additional good manners

  • Be punctual. Better yet, be early.
  • Do not talk during the proceedings while court is in session.
  • Do not chew gum.
  • Do not bring books or magazines to read.
  • Remain in attendance until excused. Parties and counsel must remain in attendance during jury deliberations.
  • Address others only by their titles and surnames, including lawyers, witnesses, and court personnel.
  • Hand to the clerk, not the judge or reporter, all things for examination by the judge.
  • Stand when the judge or jury enters or leaves the courtroom.
  • Make no side remarks.
  • Do not have your cell phone on—turn it off.

Following these basic guidelines greatly enhances your chances of getting the ruling you want.

Contact our law firm

In family law cases, your rights need protection. For quality legal counsel in Katy, Fort Bend, Houston, and all surrounding areas, call The Law Offices of Kathy Black or contact us online now.