U.S. immigration: What you wear to court matters

If you have an immigration hearing soon, you may be wondering how to dress for court. Learn what clothes best impact your case with Bassey Law. Contact us today.Emigrating from another country to Florida may have prompted many changes in your life. Whether you arrived here to become a new spouse or you entered the U.S. through a visa program, adapting to a new lifestyle can be challenging. If part of the process involves you having to appear in court or attend an official immigration interview, there are several things to keep in mind to help you minimize stress.

One detail to keep in mind is that your clothing choices in the courtroom may have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. You might initially think that clothing should not matter at all if you enter a courtroom. After all, the U.S. is a free country where you may choose to wear whatever type of clothing you like. However, the impression you make on court officials or immigration interviewers can influence their decisions.

What to wear or not to wear

When you have received an official notice to appear in court, the first thing to remember is that you’ll want to look clean, neat and put together on that day. You don’t necessarily have to buy new clothes, especially if are working with a limited budget. However, you’ll want to choose an outfit that has no stains or rips, one that looks nice and neat.

Going for a business casual appearance is the best choice for attending a court hearing or immigration interview. You’ll want to avoid showing your midriff. The same goes for plunging necklines. Men should avoid pants that sag below the buttocks.

Why dress pants and shirts are better than jeans and running shoes

While there is nothing inherently wrong with wearing jeans or tennis shoes, when it comes to attending an interview with U.S. immigration officials or appearing in a Florida courtroom, there are other clothing choices that are likely to make a better impression on the judge overseeing the case. If you look like you’re taking the situation seriously, it could have a positive effect on your case.

On the other hand, if you walk into court wearing a t-shirt with your favorite rock band plastered across the front or jeans with holes in the them and shoes that look dirty or worn, it may not give the impression that you are putting forth your best effort to secure a favorable outcome. If you’re unsure what to wear, it’s helpful to speak with someone who has a lot of courtroom experience to seek recommendations.