You just got the summons. That thin, official-looking envelope sitting on your kitchen counter feels a bit heavy, doesn't it? After the initial "ugh" wears off, the practical questions start creeping in. Specifically, what should I wear to jury duty so I don't get kicked out or, worse, lectured by a bailiff?
Honestly, the courtroom is a weird place. It’s one of the few remaining spots in American life where a dress code actually matters, but nobody really tells you what that code is. You aren't trial counsel. You aren't the defendant. You’re just a citizen trying to do your part without looking like you rolled out of bed five minutes ago.
Courtrooms are cold. Like, aggressively cold. They are also surprisingly formal, even in 2026. If you show up in flip-flops, you’re basically asking for a bad time.
The Baseline: Business Casual is Your Best Friend
Forget the tuxedo. You don't need a three-piece suit unless you’re trying to look like an extra from a legal drama. Most courts across the United States—from the Los Angeles Superior Court to the small town houses in Vermont—officially request "business casual" attire.
What does that actually mean?
Think of it as what you'd wear to a semi-important office meeting or a nice lunch with your grandparents. For men, this usually means a polo shirt or a button-down. Khakis are fine. Please, leave the cargo pants at home; the extra pockets won't help you deliberate. For women, a nice blouse with slacks or a skirt that hits near the knee is the gold standard.
Why the Judges Care So Much
It’s about respect. That sounds cliché, but it’s true. Judge Judy might not be presiding over your case, but real-life judges like Kimba Wood or Jed Rakoff view the courtroom as a sacred space for the rule of law. When you dress up a little, you’re signaling to the court that you take the process seriously.
If you show up in a "Free Tom Brady" t-shirt, you’re telling the judge you don't care. That’s a fast track to a stern talking-to.
The Absolute "No-Go" List
Some things are universal deal-breakers. If you wear these, the deputies at the metal detector might send you home, which sounds like a win until you realize you just have to come back another day to make up for it.
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- Hats. Take them off. Unless it’s for religious reasons (like a hijab, yarmulke, or turban), your head should be bare the moment you cross the threshold of the courtroom.
- Graphic Tees. Anything with political slogans, vulgarity, or even just loud branding is a bad idea. You want to be a blank slate.
- Athletic Wear. Yoga pants are comfortable, sure. They are also 100% not allowed in most jurisdictions.
- Shorts. It doesn't matter if it's 100 degrees in Phoenix. Wear pants.
I once saw a guy try to enter a jury assembly room in tank tops and board shorts. The clerk didn't even let him check in. He had to go to a nearby Target, buy a pair of "emergency khakis," and come back. Talk about an expensive day of civic duty.
Layering is a Survival Skill
The AC in government buildings is notoriously unpredictable. One minute you’re sweating in the security line, and the next you’re sitting in a jury box that feels like a meat locker.
Bring a sweater. Seriously. A cardigan or a light blazer is the ultimate jury duty hack. It makes a t-shirt look more professional if you’re in a pinch, and it keeps you from shivering while the lawyers argue over "Exhibit B" for three hours.
Footwear Matters More Than You Think
You will be standing. A lot. Between security lines, elevators, and being escorted back and forth, your feet will take a beating.
- Avoid: High heels that click loudly on marble floors (it’s distracting) or brand-new shoes that give you blisters.
- Choose: Loafers, flats, or very clean, conservative sneakers.
Some courts are getting more relaxed about sneakers, especially in tech-heavy hubs like San Francisco or Seattle. But we’re talking "clean white leather Stan Smiths," not "muddy trail runners." If you have to ask if they're okay, they probably aren't.
The "Invisible" Juror Strategy
When attorneys are picking a jury—a process called voir dire—they are looking at you. Hard. They are making snap judgments based on your appearance before you even open your mouth.
If you want to be picked (or if you desperately want to be avoided), your clothes are your primary tool. Most experts suggest the "Invisible Juror" look. This means wearing neutral colors: navy, gray, beige, or black.
Avoid bright neon yellow. Don't wear a shirt that screams "I have very strong opinions about the tax code." By blending in, you allow the legal teams to focus on your answers rather than your wardrobe. It’s also just polite. You’re there to judge the facts, not to be the center of attention.
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Regional Quirks: Not All Courts Are Equal
Depending on where you are, the definition of "nice clothes" shifts.
In Texas or Montana, a pair of very clean, dark-wash denim jeans with a button-down and boots is often perfectly acceptable. In Manhattan, that might be pushing it. Federal court is always more formal than municipal or small-claims court. If you are headed to a Federal Building, step it up. Wear the blazer. Tie? Probably not necessary, but it wouldn't hurt.
Check the Summons
Always read the back of your summons. Most people ignore the fine print, but it often contains specific dress code requirements for that specific county. Some strictly forbid "sleeveless tops." Others might specifically mention "no denim."
If you’re in a rural area, the vibe might be "come as you are, just be clean." If you’re in a major metropolitan center, the expectations are higher.
Practical Tips for the Long Haul
Jury duty is mostly waiting. You sit in a room with 200 other people staring at a muted TV or your phone.
- Empty your pockets. You’ll be going through metal detectors. Wear a belt that’s easy to take off and put back on if the security is tight.
- Avoid "Noisy" Jewelry. Bangles that clank against the wooden jury box are the fastest way to get glared at by a court reporter.
- Fragrance. Go easy on the perfume or cologne. You’ll be sitting in close quarters with people who might have allergies.
Real-World Examples of What Works
Let’s look at a few "outfits of the day" that actually pass the test.
The "Safe" Professional: Dark blue chinos, a light blue button-down shirt (tucked in), and brown leather shoes. This works for anyone, anywhere. It says, "I am a responsible adult who knows how to use an iron."
The Comfortable Classic: A knit midi-dress with a denim jacket or cardigan over it. Combine this with flat boots or loafers. It’s basically pajamas that look like a real outfit.
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The "I Came From Work" Look: Scrubs are actually okay in many courts if you are a healthcare worker coming directly from a shift, but it’s always better to change if you can. If you work in construction, try to swap the muddy work boots for something cleaner before you walk in.
Common Misconceptions About Jury Style
A lot of people think they should dress poorly to get out of jury duty. They think, "If I look like a slob, they won't want me."
This is a myth.
Attorneys don't necessarily dismiss people for being messy; they dismiss people for being biased or incapable of following instructions. Dressing poorly just makes you look disrespectful to the judge. Some judges have even been known to hold people in contempt or make them return the following day in "proper" attire. It’s not a loophole; it’s just an inconvenience for everyone involved.
Another misconception is that you need to look "wealthy." You don't. You just need to look "neat." A $10 t-shirt that is clean and tucked into a pair of $20 Target slacks is infinitely better than a $500 designer shirt that is wrinkled and covered in dog hair.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Court Date
If you’re still staring at your closet, here is exactly what to do.
- Tonight: Check your summons for a specific dress code. If it says "No Jeans," believe it.
- Pick a "Base": Find a pair of non-denim pants (khakis, chinos, or slacks) or a skirt that hits the knee.
- The "Vibe" Check: Put on the shirt you plan to wear. Does it have words on it? If yes, pick a different one.
- Ironing: If it's wrinkled, fix it. Courtrooms are bright, and wrinkles show.
- The Layer: Grab a sweater or jacket. Put it by the door. You will thank yourself when the AC kicks in at 10:00 AM.
- Shoes: Check the soles. If they are caked in mud, give them a quick wipe.
Ultimately, what you wear to jury duty is about blending in. You want the focus to be on the justice system, not your wardrobe. Dress like you're going to a quiet office, stay warm, and bring a book. You’ll be fine.