How Can a Well-Fitted Suit Impact a Lawyer’s First Impression with Clients and Help Their Career Along the Way?

The saying goes that you only get one chance to make a first impression. This is particularly true for lawyers, who, whether they like it or not, are judged on how they look when they enter a courtroom.

In the legal world - where one’s appearance couldn’t matter more – attorneys need to know the value, and potential value, of their image.

First Impressions Count

When it comes to first impressions, your appearance is everything. Anybody can be guilty of judging a book by its cover (don’t do it too quickly), but when it comes to attorneys, first impressions may never be more important.

You should always be professional and polished in how you represent yourself, maintaining certain civilities of appearance in the profession.

Keep in mind that you are an ambassador of yourself and your client, so appearing sharp is critical for inspiring trust in those around you.

Confidence Boosting Benefits

Furthermore, dressing the part is a great way to feel confident, make a positive impression on others, and gain trust. It gives you that added confidence to be at your best in the courtroom.

When you are looking good — and feeling good — you can think more clearly and concentrate better on your case. Also, looking good and professional in court makes you feel proud of yourself and your work.

Overall Professionalism

The need for appearance isn’t limited to lawyers; it’s essential in professional environments across the board. Whether you have clients to meet or are heading to court as a lawyer or a witness, presenting well is a sign of self-respect and respect for others.

It’s also professional and competent – essential qualities for any good lawyer. How you look can affect how people treat you, so coming across as confident is critical.

What to Wear to Court for Success

The most important thing to note is that there is no such thing as being “overdressed” for courtroom wear. While the specifics differ by jurisdiction, in most jurisdictions, courts require lawyers (and people in certain professions) to appear in business professional attire, which often consists of suits, blazers, dress pants/skirts, dress shirts/blouses, and closed-toe shoes (no flip-flops).

You should look polished and professional without losing your spirit or style, and you want your outfits to tell judges and juries that you mean business.

Watch Those Grooming Rituals

You must also pay attention to your grooming – after all, you wouldn’t want to look shabby during a meeting with a client or argue in court. Be sure that your hair is well combed and any facial hair (where appropriate) is regularly groomed (also, your nails should be trimmed and clean). Details like these may seem trivial, but they make a big difference in how good of an impression you have on everyone you encounter professionally.

It’s Not Just About Clothes

Appearance isn’t just clothes; it’s also body language and attitude.

• Eye contact between words means you’re respectful of not just the one speaking to you but the entire room (sitting up straight refers to a subset of that);

• Crossing your arms at your chest indicates you’re an open book.

• Speaking with a deep voice says you’re always in control.

Actively listening shows others that you are paying attention to what they are saying.  

• A big smile shows that you are a carrier of light.

• Shaking a hand and doing so effectively says you mean business.

• Putting a lot of oomph into your delivery makes coming across as if you mean business believable.

• and being prepared shows assurance ….

The list goes on.

All these things come together in how others perceive you, inside and outside the courtroom, so it’s worth being mindful of your conduct when dealing with clients or fellow lawyers.

Final Thoughts

Your image will tell people an entire story about who you are, and they can form their thoughts about you as an attorney before you speak.

There is no understating the value of presenting yourself professionally; clients hire lawyers based on perceived credibility, competence, and trustworthiness—attributes easier inferred (for most of us) when you wear a pressed suit rather than sweatpants!