In a moment that quickly caught public attention, a Texas courtroom turned into a lesson in decorum when Jefferson County Judge Raquel West reprimanded a defendant for wearing an inappropriate T-shirt during a felony court appearance.

Sammy Morris, who was standing before the 252nd District Court last week, opted to wear a gray T-shirt bearing the words “World’s Best Farter” with the phrase “I mean father” scribbled below it. The footage of the proceedings, posted on the court’s official YouTube channel, captured Judge West’s blunt reaction as she addressed Morris directly.

“What made you think that was a good shirt to wear to court this morning?” Judge West asked pointedly from the bench.

Morris, seemingly caught off guard, mumbled that the T-shirt was the only clothing option available to him that day.

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“That was the only shirt you had to wear in your closet?” West pressed, clearly unconvinced.

Attempting to justify his attire, Morris emphasized the second part of the shirt’s message, claiming it ultimately said “father.” But Judge West was quick to shut down the excuse.

“No, it says … I can read it. I see what it says at the bottom,” she said, not amused by the shirt’s attempt at humor.

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Making it clear that she considered his attire unacceptable, Judge West issued a stern reminder about courtroom etiquette.

“You’re in felony court. You need to dress appropriately for felony court, and that’s not appropriate,” she said, exhaling loudly before continuing with the session.

In Texas courts, participants such as attorneys, parties, and their representatives are expected to dress in appropriate business attire. According to court guidelines, that means a business suit or sport coat, dress slacks, a collared shirt, and a tie for men. Additionally, individuals are instructed to use “common sense” when preparing to appear before the court.

Judge West didn’t stop at Morris’s wardrobe malfunction. She continued her firm admonishment by addressing his lack of legal representation. Morris informed the judge that he had contacted three lawyers prior to the appearance but had not heard back in time.

Unimpressed, Judge West emphasized that simply making a few calls isn’t enough effort when facing felony charges.

“You need to get someone hired, or you need to actually talk to three lawyers,” she said. “You can’t actually hire someone unless you really try.”

The judge then reset Morris’s case for 30 days, firmly directing him to secure legal counsel within that time frame.

“If you have to call 20 [lawyers] to get that done, then call 20,” she said, underscoring the seriousness of the matter.

Judge West concluded the exchange with a clear warning: if Morris appeared in her courtroom again without an attorney, his bond would be revoked, and he would be sent back to jail.

While it remains unclear what specific felony charge brought Morris to court, the incident serves as a clear reminder that appearances — both personal and professional — matter in a court of law.

Judge West’s handling of the situation reflects a broader judicial expectation that individuals appearing in court treat the legal process with respect and seriousness. In her courtroom, at least, that starts with how one dresses.

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