Wear business casual or formal clothing to jury duty

There is no single national dress code for jury duty, but courts expect you to dress in a way that shows respect for the proceeding. Business casual — slacks or a skirt with a button-up shirt, a blazer, or a sweater — works in most courtrooms. Business formal — a suit, dress pants with a jacket, or a professional dress — is always appropriate and is what many jurors wear. The goal is to look like you take the responsibility seriously, not to impress anyone.

The specific expectation depends on your local court and the type of case. Federal courts tend to be more formal than state or county courts. Criminal trials often draw more formal dress than civil cases. If you received a jury summons, check whether it included dress code guidance — some courts print this directly on the summons or their website.

Key Takeaways

  • Business casual or business formal clothing is appropriate for jury duty in nearly all U.S. courts.
  • Avoid denim, athletic wear, graphic t-shirts, flip-flops, and anything with offensive language or imagery.
  • Neutral colors and modest cuts are safer choices than bright patterns or clothing that draws attention to your body.
  • If your court's summons or website specifies a dress code, follow that guidance instead of general rules.
  • Dressing professionally can influence how attorneys and judges perceive your credibility as a juror.

Clothing to avoid on jury duty

Do not wear denim, athletic wear, tank tops, or t-shirts with graphics or slogans. Avoid flip-flops, sandals, or sneakers — wear closed-toe shoes instead. Do not wear anything with offensive language, political messaging, or imagery that could signal your views on a case topic. Hats, hoods, and sunglasses should stay at home unless you have a medical reason to wear them.

Clothing that is too casual, too revealing, or too attention-grabbing can work against you. Attorneys may interpret casual dress as disrespect for the court or lack of seriousness about the case. In rare instances, judges have dismissed jurors for inappropriate dress. More commonly, casual dress straightforward makes a weaker impression during jury selection, when attorneys are forming opinions about who you are.

How to choose colors and fit

Neutral colors — black, gray, navy, white, beige, and brown — are the safest choice. These colors keep focus on your face and words rather than your clothing. If you want to wear color, stick to muted tones like olive, burgundy, or soft blue. Avoid neon, bright primary colors, or busy patterns that distract from the courtroom proceedings.

Wear clothing that fits you well and does not draw attention to your body. This means avoiding anything too tight, too loose, or cut in a way that exposes your chest, back, or midriff. The goal is to look professional and put-together, not fashionable. A well-fitting blazer, cardigan, or structured jacket over a straightforward shirt is a reliable choice for any gender.

Grooming and accessories

Keep your hair clean and styled in a way that does not obstruct your face. Judges and attorneys need to see your expressions, and jurors sitting behind you need to see the witness stand. Facial hair should be clean and groomed, not unkempt or extreme.

Jewelry should be minimal and not noisy. A watch, straightforward earrings, and a wedding ring are fine. Avoid large dangling earrings, multiple piercings visible on your face, or anything that jingles when you move. Visible tattoos do not disqualify you, but if you have the option to cover them with your clothing, doing so can reduce the chance that an attorney dismisses you based on appearance alone.

What to do if you have a medical or religious reason for your appearance

If you wear a head covering for religious reasons, wear it. If you have a medical condition that requires specific clothing or footwear, bring documentation if possible. Courts are required to make reasonable accommodations for religious practice and medical need. If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, call the court clerk before your jury duty date and explain your circumstances.

The same applies if you have a disability that affects how you dress or groom. You are not required to disclose your disability to the court, but if your appearance is related to a medical condition, you can mention this during jury selection if an attorney questions your dress.

Dressing for different types of cases

Criminal cases, especially felonies, tend to draw more formal dress from jurors. Attorneys in these cases are often more attuned to juror appearance and may use dress as one factor in deciding who to keep or dismiss. If you know you are reporting for a criminal case, err toward business formal.

Civil cases — disputes over contracts, accidents, or money — are often less formal. Business casual is usually sufficient. Small claims court is the most relaxed, though dressing neatly still matters. Traffic court falls somewhere in the middle. If your summons specifies the case type, you can adjust your dress accordingly.

What happens if you show up in inappropriate clothing

If you arrive in clothing the judge considers inappropriate, you may be asked to change or go home and return in different clothes. This is rare, but it happens. More likely, you will straightforward be dismissed during jury selection because attorneys perceive you as not taking the case seriously. This does not mean you have done anything wrong — it means your appearance influenced their decision about whether to keep you on the jury.

If you are dismissed for dress, you are usually excused from that particular case but may be called again for future jury duty. There is no penalty for being dismissed based on appearance. If you are concerned about what to wear, calling the court clerk a few days before your date is the fastest way to get specific guidance for your local court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear a suit jacket but no tie to jury duty?

Yes. A blazer or sport coat with dress pants or a skirt, worn with a button-up shirt, is business casual and appropriate for most courts. Ties are not required for men or women. If you own a tie and want to wear one, it does not hurt, but it is not necessary.

Is it okay to wear pants if I am a woman, or do I have to wear a skirt or dress?

Pants are fine. Dress pants, chinos, or other professional trousers are just as appropriate as skirts or dresses. Wear whatever you are comfortable in, as long as it is neat, fits well, and is not denim or athletic wear.

What if I have visible tattoos or piercings?

Visible tattoos and piercings do not disqualify you from jury duty. However, attorneys may use them as a factor when deciding whether to keep you on a jury. If you have the option to cover tattoos with your clothing or remove visible piercings, doing so can reduce the chance of dismissal, but you are not required to.

Do I need to wear makeup or style my hair in a specific way?

No. Makeup and hairstyle are personal choices. Keep your hair clean and out of your face so the judge and attorneys can see your expressions. Makeup is optional. The focus should be on looking neat and professional, not on following beauty standards.

What should I wear if I work in a job where business casual is too formal?

Wear the most professional clothing you own. If that is jeans and a nice shirt, bring those and a blazer to layer over them. If you own one pair of dress pants or a skirt, wear that with a clean shirt. Courts understand that not everyone owns formal clothing, and they care more about effort and respect than perfection.