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Super Contributor
Posts: 1,342
Registered: ‎10-13-2011

Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

I have to testify in court next Wednesday for a friend who is suing her former employer. I had kind of planned out what I would wear. Her attorney called me today and advised me not to wear black. I asked why not, as I planned to. He said, "The good guys never wear black." That was a new one to me! Anyone ever hear of this or have any tips on testifying in court? I never did this before and am a bit anxious about it. Thank you!

Some people do drugs. I do shoes....Celine Dion
Honored Contributor
Posts: 26,549
Registered: ‎12-17-2012

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

I would wear something that you would be comfortable in for a long period of time. You will be nervous and may become hot or cold. Just be aware of what you are going to say, do, answer and not worry about your looks. You will be nervous enough without having to fidget with clothing. Good Luck to you and your friend. Try your best to relax. Smile

Fate whispers to her, "You cannot withstand the storm." She whispers back, "I am the storm."

Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,136
Registered: ‎06-03-2010

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

I have testified twice..............keep your answer short and direct.............................raven

We're not in Kansas anymore ToTo
Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 6,583
Registered: ‎08-08-2013

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

That makes sense. All our lives, we were brought to up to believe that the bad guys always wore black and the good guys wore white.

I think, subconsciously, when someone wears black, they are not looked upon as being honest and truthful.

Listen to the lawyer. He knows what he's talking about.

ETA: When answering a question, never say "yes BUT...... A simple yes or no is all that is required......

Honored Contributor
Posts: 8,039
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Yes, one of the most terrifying experiences ever.

Valued Contributor
Posts: 887
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

I have testified twice. Once when I was 8 1/2months pregnant. Her attorney said I won the case for her on my appearance alone! The second time was an employee/employer case. I wore a black skirt and grey sweater. She lost. Go figure.

Valued Contributor
Posts: 1,320
Registered: ‎01-31-2012

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

When testifying DO NOT anticipate the questions or anticipate what answer the attorney is looking for. Listen intently to the questions asked and answer only the question as concisely as possible. Be sure of your facts before you answer and particularly with the opposition no matter how many different ways you are asked the same question keep your answer consistent.

Respected Contributor
Posts: 3,456
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Yes....a Grand Jury hearing. In addition to being nervous to testify, I had just learned that same morning that I was pregnant. Double nervous.

The attorney should prep you about what to expect before you testify.

I would imagine what you wear would have an impact on the jury. Don't be surprised if it settles out of court and you won't even have to testify.

Good luck if you do make it to the stand.

"People with closed hearts will always feel as though they are at war with the world." ~My friend Nancy
Honored Contributor
Posts: 41,967
Registered: ‎03-12-2010

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Well, I was in grade school (think 6th or 7th grade). I remember wearing a blue dress one of the times (the case dragged on and on).

There are many elements: wind, fire, water
But none quite like the element of surprise
Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 7,752
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

On 1/3/2015 raven-blackbird said:

I have testified twice..............keep your answer short and direct.............................raven

^^This^^

It's God's job to judge the terrorists. It's our mission to arrange the meeting. U.S. Marines