How do I not look nervous in court?

Asked by: Jewel Goodwin  |  Last update: January 10, 2026
Score: 4.1/5 (15 votes)

Don't tense up. Instead, always try to stay relaxed and just “a little bit mushy.” “When we get nervous or things get tough, we tend to clamp down on our breathing and we stiffen up and look like robots. Holding on to your movements is a sign you're withholding information.”

How to stop being nervous for court?

If you can, try to go to the courtroom where your hearing (or trial) will be held the week before. You can watch how the hearing goes, see what the judge is like. Then you'll know how to get there, where to find the courtroom, and you'll feel more calm on your court date.

How can I make myself look better in court?

No. 1 make sure you dress appropriately. this is your first experience with the judge. usually a first impression is super important. be clean shaven if you have a sport coat and tie. wear one if you have excessive piercings in your face. or anywhere on your body that is visible. take them out.

How can I look confident in court?

Stand tall, speak boldly.

Don't speak too quietly or quickly and avoid long moments of hesitation. Your body language and manner of speaking tell others of your confidence or insecurity. Even if you don't feel like the most confident person in the courtroom, you can certainly fake it 'til you make it.

What's the best color to wear to court?

The best color to wear to court for men and women is either dark blue or dark gray, since these colors are formal, professional, and neutral.

How To Win In Court With These 7 Body Language Secrets!

18 related questions found

What should I wear to look innocent in court?

Dress Like You Are Going to Church

No low necklines, shorts, stiletto heels, tight jeans (actually, avoid jeans altogether), or sleeveless shirts. If you are wearing a button-up shirt, make sure it is fully buttoned and wear an undershirt or, if it is cool out, a sweater.

Does hair color matter in court?

If your hair has washable dye in it because you wanted blue hair yesterday, wash it out before you go to court. If it's permanent/semi-permanent dye, at least style that blue hair respectably. If you've noticed a theme being developed here, it's that court is not the place to express yourself.

What not to tell a judge?

Here are five things all defendants will want to avoid saying to a criminal judge:
  • 'I Did It. ' ...
  • 'They Didn't Tell Me...' ...
  • Expletives. ...
  • Lies, Lies, Lies. ...
  • 'I Will Represent Myself.

How can I impress a judge?

Make it clear to the judge that you are focused solely on persuading him or her as the decision maker. Build and maintain your credibility as much as possible. Be prepared, clear, and concise. As a general rule, do not argue contested facts.

How to beat a case in court?

Tips for Winning a Court Case
  1. Find the Right Court. Laypeople are often surprised to learn that their local courthouses have many different courts inside. ...
  2. Litigate for the Right Reasons. ...
  3. Mediate Instead of Litigate. ...
  4. Communicate With Your Attorney. ...
  5. Be Willing to Negotiate. ...
  6. Follow Court Procedures. ...
  7. You'll Need a Good Lawyer.

How to look more innocent in court?

Individuals should stick with darker, more serious colors and avoid bright colors, intricate patterns, or any non-traditional fashion choices. While women and men may wear different clothing, both genders should conceal any visible tattoos and wear their hair in a trimmed, combed or styled fashion with a natural color.

Do judges care about appearance?

Judges tend to identify men with shoulder-length hair, ponytails or extreme Afros as anti-establishment and, therefore, not a particularly "good" family man. A good rule-of thumb is the shorter the better.

What to say when defending yourself in court?

Tell your story.

Tell the judge in a few brief sentences what your case is about and how you plan to prove the facts of your case. Some lawyers call this an opening statement.

What if I cry in court?

Is It Okay to Cry in Court? Yes, it is okay to cry in court. A whole category of legal damages is calculated by quantifying a victim's pain and suffering, so why wouldn't you let a judge or jury know when you are sad?

How to not be nervous for trials?

5 Ways to Beat Pre-performance Nerves
  1. Be prepared. You're less likely to freeze up if you're well prepared. ...
  2. Psych yourself up. Instead of dwelling on what could go wrong, rev up some positive energy. ...
  3. Learn ways to chill. ...
  4. Don't be afraid of the nervous feeling. ...
  5. Look after yourself.

What should you avoid saying in court?

What NOT to Say while Testifying
  • Don't lie. This seems to be common sense, but it has to be said. ...
  • Don't guess. If you don't know the answer, say so. ...
  • Don't talk about your character. ...
  • Don't call other witnesses liars.

What do judges want to hear?

At the end of the day, a judge wants to hear three things: accountability, responsibility, and remorse. They also want to hear your reasoning. Why did you commit the crime in the first place?

Can you say yes sir to a judge?

This will lose you the respect of the judge and the jury. Any lawyer who can make a witness mad will probably cause the witness to exaggerate, appear unobjective, and emotionally unstable. Be sure to answer "Yes Sir/Ma'am" and "No Sir/Ma'am" and to address the judge as "Your Honor. "

Will a judge read my letter?

During sentencing, a judge will typically only allow a certain number of live witnesses to testify as to a defendant's character but will accept almost any number of letters. Of course, a character letter is only effective if it is well-written and helps the judge understand a fuller picture of the defendant.

What annoys a judge?

Having an Outburst. Judges want their courtrooms to be professional places where justice can be served and laws are upheld. If you have an outburst of any kind, the judge is going to get agitated and/or angry. It's critical to keep your composure in the courtroom — no matter what aggravating factors are at play.

When a judge doesn't like you?

What if I get a judge that doesn't like me? Unfortunately, you are stuck. The only way you can change a judge is if you recuse them but there has to be some sort of wrongdoing or bias that is shown and that's not always easy to do.

What looks bad in a custody battle?

Bad-mouthing your ex-spouse or engaging in verbal or physical altercations with them in front of a judge looks bad. If your children are present, it looks even worse. Judges understand that tempers run high during custody cases, but lack of self-control will not reflect favorably.

What colors not to wear to court?

Avoid flashy colors or overly casual attire. When people wear a conservative color, like navy blue, and simple accessories, they make a good impression in court.

How early should I show up to court?

Show up at least one hour early so you can find the courtroom on time. You may find that you need to file court papers on the day of your hearing. In that case, you will probably have to go to the central clerk's office to file documents and then return to the courtroom.

What are the best nails for court?

In general, a neutral or pale shade is appropriate, as are classic colors like red, burgundy, or plum. It's important to avoid anything too flashy, bold, or distracting.