Does my appearance and attitude matter in court?
As I was sitting in a courtroom waiting to get some things done the judge called a criminal case on the docket.
The defendant and his attorney walked up to the trial table.
Based on the discussions between the defendant’s attorney and the assistant state’s attorney, it seemed that both sides were trying to work out a plea negotiation in lieu of a jury trial.
From where I was sitting it did not look like things were going too well and that the case was going to head to trial.
What struck my attention during all of this was the attitude and appearance of the criminal defendant.
“Man You’re Facing Jail Time!!!”
As I continued to watch things play out, the judge began to ask questions of the attorneys and the defendant.
The judge asked the defendant some basic questions and it was at that moment I could tell that this entire process seemed to be a joke to him.
He stood at the trial table, leaning back, wearing a tee shirt hanging out of his pants, which were sagging.
In addition, the way he answered the judge’s questions seemed to suggest that none of this was a big deal.
Does Appearance and Attitude Even Matter In Court?
In my opinion I think that it does matter.
As pointed out in the above case, at least some jurors are paying close attention to you.
They want to know that you take this serious, and that you are concerned.
To me it is a given that you want to look and be your best when you are trying to get someone to side with your position, whether it’s a Maryland criminal defense case or a Maryland medical malpractice or childbirth injury matter.
People are watching!
One More Thing…
In no way am I guaranteeing that if you have on a nice custom made three piece suit and an attitude as bright as the sun that you will always have a positive result in court.
It does not work that way.
But you want to always do what you can to help your chances of success.
To speak with me regarding your legal questions you can reach me at 301-850-4832.
I answer Maryland legal questions like yours all the time and I would be glad to listen to your story.
