Computer Forensics JumpStart, Second Edition

Appearance Matters

Although we often hear that we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, everyone does so anyway, and that includes judges and juries. Your appearance strongly influences your credibility in the courtroom. As unfair as this may seem, you really do need to attend carefully to what you wear and how you carry yourself. Your knowledge and the weight of your testimony will mean little if you do not appear credible and believable. Let’s look at a few aspects of your courtroom appearance.

Clothing

First and foremost, dress appropriately. Wear clothes that you would wear to a conservative office. If you are a man, you should wear a suit. Darker colors (such as blue, black, and dark green) tend to exude confidence and authority. Ties should ...