Your appearance and behavior in court significantly can influence how the judge, jury, and others perceive you.
What to wear:
- Choose conservative attire. Avoid revealing clothing.
- Footwear: Wear closed-toe shoes. No flip-flops.
- General Tips: Ensure clothes are clean and free of offensive graphics or text. Remove hats when entering the courtroom, except those worn for religious purposes.
Courtroom Etiquette:
- Punctuality: Arrive early for security screening and locating your courtroom.
- Electronic Devices: Silence or turn off all devices before entering.
- Behavior: Stay quiet and attentive. Stand when speaking and address the judge as "Your Honor."
- Food and Drink: No food, drinks, or gum in the courtroom.
- Children: If you must bring children, there is childcare available at the Main Courthouse.
Be careful when discussing your case in public spaces. Avoid conversations about your case in elevators, stairwells, restrooms, or coffee shops where others might overhear. Save sensitive discussions for private settings.
For more detailed guidelines, you can refer to the Oregon Judicial Department's rules on courtroom etiquette and dress code.