It makes them look stiff and unnatural. Left to their own devices, some defendants overdo it. Charlotte defense lawyer James Wyatt remembers the first case he tried in Charlotte in 1987. I told my client it was appropriate for him to dress up for court. He showed up in a tuxedo, a red rose in his lapel and white patent-leather shoes.
Every lawyer does it.
I always tell my clients to dress like you're going to church, because that shows your respect.