26th St. Bar Association

The Danger of Wearing Revealing Clothes to Court

September 10, 2008 · 3 Comments

I have far more male clients than female clients. And while my males clients will frequently wear inappropriate clothing, it’s usually because it’s too casual, not because they’re showing off too much skin. However, I have had female clients, and definitely seen women in the courtroom, who are wearing clothes that is downright wrong.

This woman is learning the hard way that you CAN wear clothes that is not right for court.

I should point out that this woman’s experience is one mirrored by my own. I find that female judges are far harsher on female defendants who appear before them wearing skimpy clothes. Here’s a tip. Cover up your breasts and wear a longer skirt or pants if possible. No one cares if you look “cute” in court. It’s not a fashion show, it’s your future.

Categories: Courtroom Procedure · Criminal Law · Humor

Links to Good Stuff

September 10, 2008 · Leave a Comment

Windy Pundit keeps reminding us that civil forfeiture laws take your stuff without a lot of due process.

ECILcrime compares lawyers to elves but in a good way!

Mark Bennett points out that springing nasty little surprises on the prosecution can be a long term negotiating strategy.

Stephen Gustitis at The Defense Perspective points out a new Texas law that mandates the release of marijuana possessors (up to 4 ounces!), graffiti artists, driving on a suspended license and theft under $500 to be released on a personal recognizance bond. Given the lack of those bonds in Cook County a reasonable change in the law like this would be welcome in Illinois.

Categories: Criminal Law