Delaware Jury Duty Dress Code: Rules, Shoes, and Head Coverings

The Delaware jury duty dress code is not a single published list — it’s a standard. Delaware’s courts expect business casual clothing in good condition that shows you take the case seriously, and they specifically bar shorts, tank tops, flip-flops, ripped clothing, hats, and anything revealing or offensive. Dress slacks or clean jeans, a collared shirt or blouse, and closed-toe shoes will get you through the door at every level of the Delaware court system.

The Standard Delaware Courts Actually Apply

Delaware Superior Court, where most jury trials happen, deliberately avoids a rigid dress code. Its juror handbook says jurors “should not dress in such a casual way as to suggest a lack of appreciation of the importance of the issues to be decided by them to the parties and the public.”1Delaware Courts. Handbook for Jurors The Court of Common Pleas takes the same approach, noting there is no written dress code but that “certain attire is not considered suitable.”2Delaware Courts. Court of Common Pleas Tips on Going to Court

The U.S. District Court for Delaware is a little more specific for federal jury duty: wear “proper attire showing respect for the court and parties,” such as slacks, jeans, shirts, or dresses, all without holes, rips, or tears.3United States District Court District of Delaware. FAQs – Juror

Business casual is the safe choice everywhere. Dress slacks or khakis, a collared shirt or blouse, a skirt or dress at or below the knee. Clean jeans with no rips are generally fine. If an outfit feels borderline, the uncertainty itself is usually your answer.

Clothing You Should Not Wear

The Justice of the Peace Court publishes the most detailed attire policy in the Delaware judiciary, and the Court of Common Pleas and federal court echo most of its restrictions. Across those courts, these items are consistently off-limits:

A useful rule of thumb: if you’d wear it to the beach, the gym, or bed, leave it home. Clean and comfortable does not mean sloppy.

Hats, Sunglasses, and Shoes

Hats and caps come off before you enter a Delaware courthouse. The JP Court lists hats and head coverings among inappropriate attire, and the Court of Common Pleas applies the same rule. Non-prescription dark sunglasses must also be removed once you enter the courtroom at the Court of Common Pleas.2Delaware Courts. Court of Common Pleas Tips on Going to Court This one catches people off guard.

For footwear, flip-flops and slippers are the items most consistently flagged. Closed-toe shoes you can stand and walk in comfortably are the right call. Jury service involves a lot of sitting, waiting, and moving through corridors, so pick shoes that look decent and feel fine over a long day.

Religious and Medical Head Coverings

The hat rule has a clear exception. Both the JP Court and the Court of Common Pleas explicitly permit head coverings worn for religious or medical reasons.4Delaware Judiciary. Justice of the Peace Court – Appropriate Attire A hijab, turban, yarmulke, or similar covering tied to religious practice is fine, and no special advance notice is required.

For medical items that might look unusual in a courtroom, such as orthopedic footwear, braces, or compression garments, calling the Jury Commissioner’s office before your service date is a reasonable step so staff can note the accommodation. The courts don’t publish a formal medical exemption process for attire, but legitimate medical needs are respected across the Delaware judiciary.

What Happens If You Show Up in the Wrong Clothes

The JP Court is blunt about this. Wearing inappropriate attire and being denied entry “will not be an excuse as to tardiness or failure to appear for any court hearing,” and the consequences can include a capias, which is a bench warrant.4Delaware Judiciary. Justice of the Peace Court – Appropriate Attire Picking the wrong outfit is treated as your problem to solve, not the court’s.

If you don’t appear at all, Delaware law treats failing to comply with a jury summons as criminal contempt, punishable by a fine of up to $100, up to three days in jail, or both.5Delaware General Assembly. Delaware Code Title 10 – Chapter 45 Jury Selection and Service Federal penalties are steeper: contempt of the Jury Selection Act can bring a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment of up to three days, community service, or a combination.3United States District Court District of Delaware. FAQs – Juror

Dress With Security Screening in Mind

What you wear also affects how fast you get through the door. Delaware courthouses screen all members of the public through magnetometers, and the standard procedure requires you to empty your pockets and remove your belt before walking through. If you set off the detector, expect a follow-up with a handheld wand or further inspection of your clothing and shoes.6Delaware Courts. Courthouse Screening

Heavy metal jewelry, steel-toed boots, and large belt buckles will slow you down. Simpler accessories and an easy-to-remove belt save real minutes in the line.

One Last Comfort Note

Courtrooms and jury assembly rooms run cold. The federal district court specifically suggests bringing a light sweater or jacket.3United States District Court District of Delaware. FAQs – Juror A cardigan or blazer does double duty: it looks right for the setting and keeps you warm through long stretches of waiting. The court doesn’t expect a suit. It does expect you to look like the case matters to you.