If you are going through a divorce and court proceedings are involved, it is important that you try to present the best version of yourself. Appearances matter, and sometimes actions can speak louder than words. Here are four things to keep in mind before you go to court for your divorce.

1. Dress for Court

Even if you are exhausted and distracted because of your divorce, you still need to make yourself presentable in court. Part of this is choosing a professional outfit that will make an impression the second you walk into the courtroom. If you can look put together and professional, your case will be taken more seriously. Make sure that your look is conservative to show respect for the courtroom and your situation. If you are unsure if your outfit is what is expected, run this by your divorce attorney first.

2. Practice Makes Perfect

If you will have to do some talking in court, make sure that you practice with your divorce attorney ahead of time. If you know ahead what types of questions might be thrown your way, you can be ready for this. Practice will keep your answers to the point and hopefully keep emotions down if anything frustrating does come up. The last thing you want is to be caught off-guard with questioning and to become flustered.

3. No Distractions

If your divorce case has made it to the courtroom, it is important that you are all business during the proceedings. Don't have your cell phone on and don't bring kids or other family members that are going to be a distraction. Above all else, show up early and be ready for the day. Map out your route ahead of time or come with your lawyer to be certain that you aren't late to your own divorce hearing.

4. Don't Bring Your Girlfriend

If your divorce has been going on for a while, you may have moved on romantically. Divorce court can be nerve wracking and you might want emotional support, but don't bring along your new significant other. This might show disrespect to the issue at hand especially if there are custody issues on the table.

Going through a divorce can be emotionally wearing, but it is important to remember how you will come off to a judge. It is absolutely necessary that you pull yourself together for court proceedings and are ready to show off your best side. Your divorce attorney will make your case, but you need to make sure that you are professional and respectful. Anything that you can do to steer divorce decisions in your direction the better.