Why Do Barristers Wear Wigs?

Whenever we think about barristers, the first thing that comes to our mind is wigs. In this article, we are going to talk about why barristers wear wigs, the historical background of wearing wigs, and the dress code of advocates, junior barristers, and the queen’s counsel in the courtroom.

Who Else Wears Wigs in Court?

Judges in certain jurisdictions wear wigs as a symbol of their authority and to reflect the traditions of the legal profession. The wearing of wigs in a courtroom is rooted in British legal tradition, and the practice was adopted by many other countries, including the United States. Wigs are worn by judges in some countries to show respect for the history and gravity of the legal system. They may also be seen as a way to make all judges appear equal, regardless of their personal appearance. Some people believe that the wig helps to add an element of formality and dignity to the proceedings.

In some countries, such as the United Kingdom and some parts of the Commonwealth, barristers (lawyers who represent clients in court) also wear wigs. In other countries, such as the United States, only judges wear wigs in court. The wearing of wigs by legal professionals is a tradition that dates back centuries and is still followed in some countries today

Why Do Barristers Wear Wigs?

Barristers traditionally wear wigs as part of their court attire. There are several reasons for this tradition:

1. Wigs are a symbol of the legal profession and a sign of respect for the judicial system.
2. Wigs help to distinguish barristers from other legal professionals, such as solicitors.
3. In the past, wigs were worn as a sign of status and wealth. Wigs were expensive to manufacture and maintain, so only wealthy individuals could afford to wear them.
4. Wigs help to create a sense of formality and ceremony in the courtroom, which is important for the administration of justice.
5. Wigs may also serve a practical purpose, as they help to keep a barrister’s hair in place and prevent distractions in the courtroom.

In some jurisdictions, wigs are no longer worn as part of court attire, and the decision to wear a wig is left to the individual barrister.

History of Barristers Wearing Wigs

The tradition of barristers wearing wigs in court can be traced back to the seventeenth century in England. At that time, wigs were a fashionable accessory and were worn by both men and women as a symbol of status and wealth. When the English legal system adopted the practice of wearing wigs in court, it was originally only judges who wore them.

Over time, the wearing of wigs became more widespread among legal professionals. Barristers, who are responsible for representing clients in court, began to wear wigs as a sign of respect for the legal profession and as a way to distinguish themselves from other members of society. Wigs were also seen as a way to add an element of formality and dignity to legal proceedings.

In the modern era, the tradition of wearing wigs in court has declined in many jurisdictions. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, barristers still wear wigs in certain courtrooms, while in others, such as the United States, the practice has been largely abandoned. However, the tradition of wearing wigs in court remains an important part of the history of the legal profession and is still followed by some legal professionals today.

What Does Court Dress Look Like Today?

Advocates Dress Code

An advocate is a legal professional who represents clients in a court of law. The dress code for advocates varies depending on the jurisdiction and the specific court in which they are practicing. In general, advocates are expected to dress in a way that is professional and respectful of the court.

In common law jurisdictions, advocates may be required to wear formal court attire, which often includes a gown, a wig, and a collar. The specific details of the attire may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the rank of the advocate.

In other jurisdictions, advocates may be required to wear business attire, such as a suit and tie. Some courts may have more relaxed dress codes, and advocates may be permitted to wear less formal clothing, as long as it is still respectful and professional.

In general, it is important for advocates to dress in a way that shows respect for the court and the legal profession, and that does not distract from the proceedings.

Junior Barristers Dress Code

The dress code for junior barristers, who are also known as pupillage barristers or pupil barristers, varies depending on the jurisdiction and the specific court in which they are practicing. In general, junior barristers are expected to dress in a way that is professional and respectful of the court.

In common law jurisdictions, junior barristers may be required to wear formal court attire, which often includes a gown, a wig, and a collar. The specific details of the attire may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the rank of the junior barrister.

In other jurisdictions, junior barristers may be required to wear business attire, such as a suit and tie. Some courts may have more relaxed dress codes, and junior barristers may be permitted to wear less formal clothing, as long as it is still respectful and professional.

It is important for junior barristers to dress appropriately and in a way that shows respect for the court and the legal profession, and that does not distract from the proceedings.

Queen’s Counsel Dress Code

A Queen’s Counsel (QC) is a senior barrister in common law jurisdictions who has been appointed by the monarch to serve as one of her Counsel. The dress code for QCs varies depending on the jurisdiction and the specific court in which they are practicing.

In common law jurisdictions, QCs may be required to wear formal court attire, which often includes a gown, a wig, and a collar. The specific details of the attire may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the rank of the QC.

In other jurisdictions, QCs may be required to wear business attire, such as a suit and tie. Some courts may have more relaxed dress codes, and QCs may be permitted to wear less formal clothing, as long as it is still respectful and professional.

It is important for QCs to dress appropriately and in a way that shows respect for the court and the legal profession, and that does not distract from the proceedings.