QUESTION: Dear Legal Wiz,
The other day I wanted to the Courts Office and my nephew said I was too sexy, but you know what.. in America we wear shorts and sleeveless to Court. Jamaica is much hotter. Will I really be turned away in my knickers?
Samantha Garvey

RESPONSE: Dear Samantha,
Please see the dress code for local courts in Jamaica.
Several persons complain about the heat with reference to what they wear in other countries. All we can say is sometimes the police use their discretion and even the Judges allow variations provided its tasteful.

So just ensure you most of all cover up WHETHER you go to the office or to Court.

Male Attorneys should wear

– Business or lounge suits.
– Blazers and trousers of sober colour.
– Shirt buttoned at the neck with tie of sober colour.
– Shoes and socks are to be worn, not including sandals or slippers.

Female Attorneys should wear

– Dress pant or skirt suit, skirts and blouse with soberly cut neckline at the front and the back. The skirt should end not higher than one inch above the knee.
– Shoes, not including sandals or slippers.

General Public dress code

Women should wear

– Moderate dress is expected
– chest, stomach or thigh must not be exposed
– Tight clothing – eg. blouse, pants or mini skirt are not allowed

Men should wear

– Earrings should not be worn
– Shirts must be tucked inside pants
– Chest or chest hair must not be exposed
– Pants should be secured to the waistline
– Hipsters pants are not allowed

While you are in court DO NOT:

– Use your Cellular phones. Turn it Off, or place it on silent before going in
– Talk
– Carry any form of weapons eg. Knives, ice pricks, guns, corrosive liquid
– Chew gum, food or drink
– Wear Dark glasses or cosmetically tinted glasses
– Wear Shorts, slippers, caps or hats
– Carry Luggage except handbags, briefcase

Legal Wiz
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DISCLAIMER:
The above does not constitute legal advice. The responses are prepared and published by inhouse senior journalists after research and discussion with attorneys-at-law and other specialists, as necessary.
The Legal Wiz networks professionals from all fields to serve the interest of all Jamaicans and persons relating with Jamaicans.
Please remember that names are changed at times by request of the person seeking information.