Most courts expect business casual or better, but the exact standard varies by courthouse

There is no single national dress code for jury duty. Each court sets its own expectations, and they range from "wear what you'd wear to work" to "dress as if you're meeting a judge" — which you are. The safest approach is to call your courthouse the day before and ask what jurors typically wear, or check the summons itself, which sometimes includes guidance.

The core principle is respect for the courtroom. Judges and court staff want jurors to look like they take the proceeding seriously. Clothes that are too casual, too revealing, or too attention-grabbing can work against you, both in how you're perceived and in whether you're seated on a particular case.

Key Takeaways

  • Business casual — slacks or a skirt with a button-up shirt or blouse — is appropriate for nearly every courthouse in the country.
  • Avoid athletic wear, tank tops, shorts, flip-flops, and anything with large logos or slogans, as these signal you don't take the duty seriously.
  • Your appearance during jury selection (voir dire) can influence whether attorneys want you on their jury, so dressing neatly matters strategically.
  • If you're unsure, call the courthouse clerk's office the day before your service date and ask what jurors typically wear.

What counts as appropriate courtroom dress

Business casual is the baseline that works almost everywhere. For men, this means dress pants or khakis, a collared shirt, and closed-toe shoes. A tie and jacket are not required but won't hurt. For women, this means dress pants, a skirt, or a dress; a blouse or sweater; and closed-toe shoes. Avoid anything sheer, very short, or low-cut.

The goal is to look like someone who respects the process. Judges notice what jurors wear, and so do the attorneys selecting the jury. If you show up in gym clothes, you may be dismissed before the trial even starts — not because there's a written rule, but because your appearance suggests you don't take the responsibility seriously.

Neat grooming matters as much as the clothes themselves. Clean hair, minimal jewelry, and no strong perfume or cologne are standard courtroom courtesy. Visible tattoos and piercings are usually fine, but if a tattoo is offensive or a piercing is extreme, it can count against you during jury selection.

What not to wear to jury duty

Avoid anything that draws attention to itself or suggests you're not taking the day seriously. This includes athletic wear (yoga pants, sweatshirts, sneakers), shorts, tank tops, halter tops, or anything with large logos, band names, or political slogans. Flip-flops and sandals are too casual; wear closed-toe shoes. Hats and sunglasses should be removed indoors.

Clothing that is too revealing — very short skirts, low necklines, or see-through fabrics — is inappropriate in a courtroom. The same goes for anything wrinkled, stained, or visibly worn out. If you wouldn't wear it to a job interview, don't wear it to jury duty.

Avoid anything that signals a strong political, religious, or social stance through clothing. A t-shirt with a candidate's name, a slogan about a controversial issue, or religious symbols can bias how attorneys and judges perceive your impartiality, even if that's not fair.

Why your appearance matters during jury selection

During voir dire — the process where attorneys question potential jurors — your appearance is part of the first impression you make. Attorneys are trying to figure out whether you'll be fair to their client, and they make snap judgments based on how you look and carry yourself. Dressing neatly and professionally makes it easier for them to see you as thoughtful and impartial.

Conversely, showing up in casual or sloppy clothes can make an attorney think you don't care about the case or the court's time. That attorney may use a challenge to remove you from the jury, even if you would have been a fair juror. You won't know this happened — you'll simply be dismissed and sent home.

What to do if you're unsure about the dress code

Your summons should list the courthouse name and a phone number for the jury office. Call that number the day before your service date and ask: "What should jurors wear?" The clerk can tell you what's typical for that courthouse and whether there are any special circumstances (like a criminal trial where formality is higher, or a civil case where the standard is more relaxed).

If you can't reach anyone, err on the side of formality. Business casual is never wrong. It's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed for jury duty.

Dress code if you have a medical condition or religious requirement

If you have a medical reason to wear specific clothing — compression garments, for example, or shoes for a foot condition — wear them under or with business casual clothes as much as possible. If you need to explain, tell the judge or court staff before the trial starts. Courts are generally accommodating about medical needs.

If your religion requires specific dress — a headscarf, for example, or modest clothing — you can wear it. Courts must accommodate sincere religious practice. Wear it with the rest of your outfit as neat and professional as you can manage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear jeans to jury duty?

Most courts consider jeans too casual, even if they're clean and in good condition. Stick with dress pants, khakis, or a skirt. If your courthouse is very informal, the clerk can tell you when you call, but don't assume.

What if I show up underdressed and get sent home?

You may be dismissed for the day and asked to return another time with appropriate clothing, or you may be dismissed from that jury pool entirely. Either way, you've wasted a trip. Call ahead to avoid this.

Do I need to wear a suit to jury duty?

No. A full suit is not required and can actually make you look stiff or overly formal. Business casual — slacks and a button-up shirt, or a skirt and blouse — is the right level.

Can I wear a religious head covering or modest dress?

Yes. Courts must accommodate sincere religious dress and practice. Wear your religious clothing as part of an otherwise neat, professional appearance.

What if I have a disability and can't stand in formal clothes all day?

Tell the judge or court staff before the trial starts. Explain your situation, and they can often work with you — allowing you to sit in a specific spot, wear compression garments under business casual clothes, or make other accommodations that keep you on the jury while respecting your health needs.