Kilt in courthouse

[parpin]

Hello everybody,

Should be a good idea to go kilted at the courhouse to testify as a eyewithness ,expert withness or watching a trial?

The dress code at the courthouse specifies that you have to be properly dressed.

Does anybody on the list have some experience about it.

[chasem]

I'm pretty sure there's a member here go works in a courthouse and wears a kilt often.

[RCallan]

Not sure I would do that.
The last thing you want to do in court is bring more attention to yourself.
Judges don't like anything that takes away from the matter at hand.

Be on the safe side and put on the dark suit with a dress shirt and tie. Polish your shoes too.

[Andrew Breecher]

I would say: of course! Kilts are "proper dress".

However, also keep in mind that most people aren't used to seeing kilts. They will see you, and immediately they will draw a conclusion about you. Perhaps it will be good, perhaps it will be bad. Remember that court is about the presentation of facts with as little outside influence as possible. Use your own judgement.

Andrew.

[Bob C]

My job takes me to a courthouse most Mondays. I've never worn the kilt.

If you're testifying as an expert, I'd say you owe it to your client to put forth the most professional appearance you can. Unfortunately, the kilt does not do that.

If you're a spectator or an uninterested witness, go right ahead.

Most courthouses have metal detectors and security screening. Leave the sgian dubh in the car and be prepared for the possibility that they will not allow your kilt pin (if it's the pointy kind) in, either.

[cessna152towser]

I work part time as the legally qualified assessor in a Scottish District Court where I usually wear an all black heavyweight kilt with a black tie and black Argyle jacket, along with my court robe. Bear in mind that while you are in the witness box your kilt won't be visible and it will only be seen briefly by the judge when you first walk into the court room - so the top half of your attire is of greater importance. I'd say no problem with wearing a kilt in court so long as you feel comfortable and confident in it.

[switchblade5984]

kep us posted!

[bubba]

If I were called into the court for any reason they'd have no choice but to accept the kilt. The only pants I have left are grease and paint stained work pants.

[Blu (Ontario)]

Several years ago, I contemplated wearing a kilt to jury selection. My thinking was that I would be seen as an eccentric and be subsequently passed over - I did not want to have to take the time off work. At the last minute I "chickened". As it turned out, I was not chosen anyway. If it happens in future, I would certainly consider the option once more.


.

[switchblade5984]

i think it would depend on case......

so take it on a case by case basis!


watching go for it.....

jury selection go for it

as for testifiying..... depends on the circumstances

you be the judge!