Wigs worn by judges and barristers add an air of prestige and ceremony to court proceedings, yet many people question why these wigs continue to be worn.
History of Wigs is somewhat complex. They first became widely worn during the 17th century when baldness was seen as an indicator of syphilis infection.
It’s a sign of anonymity
Judges and barristers in England wear unique wigs to symbolize their history, tradition and authority of legal practice as well as create anonymity by hiding individual’s personal characteristics. Although wigs began as fashionable fashion statements they have since become iconic symbols of British judicial system despite no longer being necessary in most cases – an integral part of legal profession.
Wigs aren’t just worn to keep anonymity at bay; they also serve as an important symbol of uniformity in court proceedings. Lawyers must wear them, providing an additional visual indication between law and those appearing before it.
Though some individuals have called for the end of using wigs in courtroom proceedings, most lawyers still find them indispensable. Although not as common nowadays in civil and family law proceedings, wigs remain employed by criminal court judges when necessary.
It’s a symbol of authority
A barrister’s wig is an important symbol of authority that helps preserve tradition within the legal field and foster respect and pride in law as an area of practice.
Wigs first became fashionable in the late seventeenth century, used to conceal King Louis XIV’s baldness while simultaneously signalling class and wealth. They quickly became symbols of authority that helped distinguish between judges and those being prosecuted visually.
Today, wigs and gowns remain common practice in some courts – such as family and civil ones – though less frequently. Most countries now opt for judges wearing robes instead; some even go so far as to wear hats when preside over cases. While some argue that such practices should be discontinued due to modernity, others contend they remain part of legal tradition and should continue.
It’s a fashion statement
British legal profession is defined by an association between gravity, history and authority of legal profession and its attire; also maintaining courtroom decorum while distinguishing roles. Wigs known as perukes were once fashion statements but have since become iconic symbols of justice system.
A barrister’s wig, commonly referred to as a peruke, is constructed using curled horsehair woven together tightly into an intricate mesh of ringlets designed to give an illusion of a halo around one’s face while concealing natural hairlines.
Wigs are still worn frequently in courtrooms today and considered an essential uniform of those appearing as counsel in criminal cases. Many believe wigs should remain part of British legal history and tradition, reinforcing seriousness during trials by emphasizing solemnity of swearing oaths taken during trials.
It’s a sign of respect
Wearing wigs in courtroom is a mark of respect and tradition, as well as an equitable means of treating everyone equally. Wigs are part of barrister uniform and help distinguish them from others within society – they may also be worn outside courtroom hours to demonstrate professionalism while keeping focus on legal matters.
Though wigs have fallen out of fashion in many aspects of society, they remain popular with members of the legal profession. Recently, a female barrister took to Reddit to explain her reason for donning one; her reply was both short and lengthy.
Short answer: Wigs are both traditional and equalising in courtroom settings. Longer answer: A lawyer’s identity depends heavily upon their appearance, keeping them anonymous while also reflecting the lasting traditions of British legal system.