What Should I Wear for my Worker’s Comp Hearing?

If you have been injured on the job in Indiana, going to a worker’s compensation hearing can be nerve racking. For most, the entire process is brand new – being around a judge, lawyers, and other people in a semi-formal setting.

Our clients often wonder, what should I wear for my worker’s compensation hearing? Luckily, in Indiana, these hearings are much less formal than a traditional courtroom trial. Unlike a criminal or civil court case, where people might expect a suit and tie, worker’s compensation hearings offer more flexibility.

Judges do not expect injured workers to wear a suit and tie. Instead, they encourage a professional yet comfortable appearance. The goal is to show respect for the process without feeling overly formal or uncomfortable.

Here are some guidelines for what to wear to a worker’s comp hearing. By following these suggestions, you will dress accordingly and present yourself in a manner that reflects well on your case.

The Do’s

• Think “business casual.” Aim for a balance between comfort and professionalism.
• Clothes should be clean and not wrinkled to maintain a neat, organized appearance.
• Jeans or khakis paired with a tucked-in shirt with a collar are excellent choices for both men and women. These outfits maintain a professional look without being too stiff.
• A modest skirt or pants paired with a simple blouse would also be a great choice.

The Don’ts

• Avoid clothing with strong odors such as strong perfume or cigarette smoke.
• You should not wear casual attire such as shorts, sweatpants, tank tops, t-shirts, and overly revealing clothing.
• Steer clear of anything with offensive language or imagery.
• Footwear matters too—avoid sneakers, sandals, or high-heeled shoes.

If you feel the need to “dress more formally,” that’s entirely acceptable. However, I’d recommend steering clear of a full suit and tie for men or a complete pantsuit for women. In the case you opt for dressing up more, a sport coat – suitable for both men and women – would suffice.

When deciding what to wear for an Indiana Worker’s Comp hearing, keep this important rule in mind. Choose clothes that do not distract from the main issues of your hearing. This means, don’t overdress and don’t underdress, your goal is to want to look and feel professional. If you follow these rules, you’ll make sure the focus of your case stays on the case, and not your attire.

At Salmon & Hewins, our team dedicates itself to helping clients prepare for hearings. We make sure they are ready to present their best selves.

If you have any questions or concerns about your worker’s compensation case, don’t hesitate to reach out. The consultation for Indiana worker’s compensation cases is always free. We are here to help you at every step.