What does your outward appearance say about you? When you must appear in eviction court, or any court, put your best foot forward to make the best possible impression. Your overall appearance makes a statement to the judge. Anything you can do to help yourself gain points in your favor will certainly help your case. You don't have to go out and buy an expensive outfit to accomplish this goal. Does this Spark an idea?
Clothing
Prepare for court by dressing cleanly, as if you were going to a business meeting. Don't try to dress in shabby, old or dirty clothes to give the message you can't pay your rent. This tactic usually will work against you. Wear clothes that will help you blend in.
Wear colors that are power colors for you and also reflect respect to the court. For example, if you are a female, keep the colors neutral. The color red is not recommended, as it draws too much attention and is considered a sexual color.
Wear shoes that are comfortable and quiet. Wearing noisy boots or high heels are distracting. Clean your shoes ahead of time to make sure no scuff marks are on them.
Wear blouses that have full-coverage. Low-cut blouses have no place in the courtroom. The cleavage won't gain you points. It will actually work against you.
Leave the floral print patterns at home, men. Wear nice khaki pants, a belt and a button-up shirt. That's fine if you don't have a tie. If you do have a tie, wear one. You aren't required to wear a suit, but at least dress up a bit for the judge. Please, leave your favorite shirt from Waikiki in the closet.
Hair
Wear your hair swept off the face if you are a woman. If your hair is long and straight, it is best to wear it curly. Traditionally, men feel more protective of women with curly hair. Refrain from wearing it tight and in a severe updo that might make your features look stern. Wearing an updo is fine, but keep it loose with some curly tendrils hanging down for a softer appeal.Shave the beard or mustache if you are a man. Statistics state men come across as more honest without facial hair. If you are planning to go to eviction court and want points with the judge, definitely get out the razor and get rid of the facial hair.
Get a haircut and go to court with clean, freshly trimmed hair.
Face and Body
Leave any jewelry except for any minor, small earring studs, behind. Don't wear big hoops, long dangling earrings, or big, flashy, studded earrings that distract the judge's attention. Don't show up in court wearing a lot of jewelry or any body jewelry.
Tweeze your eyebrows. Giving your eyebrows clean, smooth lines will give your eyes a smooth frame. This can change the entire look of your face. If you don't know how to trim your eyebrows, go to a salon and have them tweezed or waxed professionally for around $10.
Brush your teeth before going to court with a tooth-whitening toothpaste.
Wear makeup sparingly. The natural look is better for women. Refrain from wearing colors in your makeup that are not natural colors for your face, such as purple, green or blue eyeshadow or red lipstick. Use clear lip gloss and neutral shades for eyeshadow.
Smile and nod. Using good facial expressions will help you look better in eviction court. Don't be afraid to look the judge in the eye. When you catch the judge's eye when she is speaking, nod immediately to show you are paying attention.
