What to Wear to Jury Duty

When it comes to jury duty, many people are unsure of what attire is appropriate. Should you dress formally, in a suit and tie? Or is business casual acceptable? Do you need to wear specific colors or avoid certain pieces of clothing? These are common questions that arise when faced with the prospect of serving on a jury.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on what to wear to jury duty. We will cover everything from general guidelines to specific do’s and don’ts. So if you have been summoned for jury duty and are wondering what to wear, keep reading to find out all you need to know.

General Guidelines for Appropriate Attire

Before we dive into the specifics, it is important to understand some general guidelines for appropriate attire for jury duty. The key is to dress conservatively and professionally, as you would for any formal event. Here are some basic rules to keep in mind when selecting your outfit:

1. Dress in Neutral Colors

When it comes to jury duty, it is best to stick to neutral colors such as black, navy blue, grey, or beige. These colors convey a sense of professionalism and seriousness, which is important when serving on a jury. Avoid wearing bright or flashy colors, as they can be distracting and may not be considered appropriate for a formal setting.

2. Choose Comfortable Clothing

Serving on a jury can be a lengthy process, so it is important to choose comfortable clothing that you can easily sit in for extended periods of time. Avoid tight-fitting or restrictive clothing that may become uncomfortable after sitting for long periods. Opt for looser-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen.

3. Keep It Conservative

Jury duty is a serious responsibility and therefore, your attire should reflect that. Avoid wearing anything too casual or revealing, such as shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops. Stick to business attire and avoid anything that may be considered offensive or inappropriate.

What to Wear for Men

Now let’s get into the specifics of what men should wear to jury duty. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you put together an appropriate outfit:

1. Do: Wear a Suit or Business Attire

A suit is always a safe choice when it comes to formal events, and this holds true for jury duty as well. If you own a suit, opt for a neutral color such as navy blue or grey. If you don’t have a suit, you can also wear dress pants with a button-down shirt and tie. Make sure your clothing is clean, pressed, and wrinkle-free.

2. Don’t: Wear Jeans or T-Shirts

Jeans and t-shirts are too casual for jury duty and should be avoided. Even if your workplace has a casual dress code, it is important to dress more formally for jury duty. Leave the jeans and t-shirts at home and opt for more professional attire instead.

3. Do: Wear Dark-Colored Shoes

When it comes to footwear, stick to dark-colored shoes such as black or brown dress shoes. Avoid wearing sneakers, sandals, or any other type of casual shoes. Your shoes should be clean and in good condition, as they are an important part of your overall appearance.

What to Wear for Women

For women, there are several options when it comes to choosing appropriate attire for jury duty. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you put together a suitable outfit:

1. Do: Wear a Dress or Skirt

A dress or skirt is a great option for women attending jury duty. Stick to knee-length or longer, and choose neutral colors such as black, navy blue, or grey. Make sure your clothing is not too tight or revealing, as you want to maintain a professional appearance.

2. Don’t: Wear Low-Cut Tops or Short Skirts

As mentioned earlier, it is important to dress conservatively and avoid any clothing that may be considered inappropriate for a formal setting. This includes low-cut tops or short skirts that may be deemed too revealing. It’s best to err on the side of caution and choose something more modest.

3. Do: Wear Closed-Toe Shoes

For footwear, opt for closed-toe shoes such as flats, heels, or dress shoes. Avoid wearing flip-flops, sandals, or any other type of casual shoes. Your shoes should be clean and in good condition, as they contribute to your overall appearance.

What Not to Wear to Jury Duty

While we have covered some general guidelines and specific do’s and don’ts for men and women, there are some items of clothing that should never be worn to jury duty. Here are some examples of what not to wear:

• Athletic wear or gym clothes
• Clothing with offensive or vulgar images or messages
• Clothing that is too casual or revealing
• Excessive jewelry or accessories

It is also important to note that some courthouses have strict security measures in place and may not allow certain items of clothing or accessories to be brought inside. It is always best to check the courthouse’s website or call ahead to inquire about any restrictions.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions when it comes to attire for jury duty:

Q: Can I wear jeans to jury duty?

A: No, jeans are too casual for jury duty. Opt for more professional attire such as a suit or dress pants with a button-down shirt and tie.

Q: Can I wear sneakers to jury duty?

A: No, sneakers are too casual for jury duty. Stick to closed-toe shoes such as dress shoes, flats, or heels.

Q: Can I wear a tank top to jury duty?

A: No, tank tops are too revealing for a formal setting like jury duty. Choose something more modest such as a blouse or dress with sleeves.

Q: Is it appropriate to wear bright colors to jury duty?

A: It is best to stick to neutral colors such as black, navy blue, or grey. Bright colors can be distracting and may not be considered appropriate for a formal event.

Q: Are there any restrictions on what I can bring with me to jury duty?

A: Some courthouses have strict security measures in place and may not allow certain items of clothing or accessories to be brought inside. It is always best to check the courthouse’s website or call ahead to inquire about any restrictions.

Conclusion

In summary, when it comes to jury duty attire, the key is to dress conservatively and professionally. Stick to neutral colors, choose comfortable clothing, and avoid anything too casual or revealing. Remember, you are representing the justice system, so it is important to dress in a manner that reflects the seriousness of the role. By following these guidelines, you will be dressed appropriately for your day in court.