Lawyers in the United Kingdom have a unique tradition of wearing wigs during court proceedings. The tradition has been around for centuries, and it's a practice that has sparked a lot of curiosity and intrigue among people who are not familiar with the British legal system. In this article, we'll delve into the history and reasons behind this practice and try to understand why British lawyers wear wigs.
The History of Wigs in the British Legal System
The use of wigs in the British legal system can be traced back to the late 17th century, when the practice became fashionable among the upper classes. Wigs were originally worn by judges and barristers as a symbol of their status and authority, and to distinguish them from other members of society.
The early wigs were made from horsehair and were long and flowing, much like the hairstyles of the day. They were also quite uncomfortable, as they were hot and heavy, and tended to slip and slide around on the wearer's head.
Over time, the style of wigs worn by lawyers became shorter and more practical. By the 18th century, the wigs worn in court had become the distinctive, white, powder-topped wigs we still see today.
The Evolution of the Wig Tradition
Despite its roots in fashion and social status, the tradition of wearing wigs in court took on a more serious role as the legal system became more standardized and professionalized.
The wig served as a symbol of the legal profession's detachment from personal biases and opinions, and its commitment to impartiality and objectivity. The wig also helped to create a sense of continuity and tradition within the legal system, linking the present to the past and reminding everyone involved of the gravity and solemnity of their duties.
Over time, the use of wigs in court spread beyond the legal profession and became a symbol of the British judicial system as a whole. Today, wigs are still worn by judges, barristers, and solicitors in certain types of court proceedings, particularly those involving criminal trials.
Why Do British Lawyers Still Wear Wigs Today?
Despite the discomfort and inconvenience of wearing wigs, they remain an important part of the British legal system. The main reason for this is tradition: the wig has been a symbol of the legal profession for so long that it has become an essential element of the courtroom atmosphere.
In addition, wigs help to create a sense of formality and solemnity in court proceedings. They serve as a reminder to all involved that the proceedings are serious and that the people involved have a duty to uphold the law and ensure justice is served.
Finally, wigs can also be helpful in disguising the identity of lawyers, particularly in high-profile or sensitive cases. By wearing a wig, a lawyer can maintain a degree of anonymity and avoid drawing unwanted attention to themselves.
Why Do British Lawyers Wear Wigs?
There are several reasons why British lawyers wear wigs. One of the reasons is to create a sense of formality and tradition in the courtroom. The wearing of wigs also helps to create a level of anonymity for lawyers, as it is difficult to recognize individuals when they are wearing a wig. This is particularly useful in cases where the lawyer may be at risk of reprisals.
Another reason why British lawyers wear wigs is to create a sense of equality among the lawyers. Wearing a wig helps to eliminate any social or economic status distinctions that may exist among lawyers.
Wigs also serve a practical purpose in the courtroom. They help to keep the courtroom free from lice and other pests that may be carried in human hair. Additionally, wigs help to regulate the temperature in the courtroom, as they can absorb moisture and help to keep the wearer cool.
Types of Wigs Worn by British Lawyers
There are two main types of wigs worn by British lawyers: the barrister wig and the judge's wig. The barrister wig is made of horsehair and is worn by barristers in the courtroom. It is a long, white wig that is tied back in a queue, a long ponytail at the back. The judge's wig, on the other hand, is shorter and made of white, curled horsehair.
The wigs are also accompanied by a white collar, which is known as a band. The band is made of linen or cotton and is worn around the neck. The band and wig are symbolic of the traditions of the British legal system.
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Controversy Surrounding Wig-wearing in the British Legal System
Over the years, there have been calls to abolish the tradition of wig-wearing in the British legal system. The tradition has been criticized for being outdated and irrelevant. Some people argue that the wearing of wigs creates a sense of detachment from the public and undermines the principles of justice.
However, the tradition of wig-wearing has remained an important part of the British legal system. The wearing of wigs is a symbol of the rich history and tradition of the British legal system, and it is unlikely to be abolished any time soon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the tradition of wearing wigs in the British legal system has a long and fascinating history. While the practice may seem outdated to some, it remains an important aspect of the legal profession in the UK. From its origins in the 17th century to its continued use in courts today, wigs have come to symbolize the impartiality and seriousness of the legal system.
Despite criticisms of the practice, many legal professionals continue to embrace the tradition and view it as an important symbol of the legal system's integrity. As such, it is unlikely that the tradition of wearing wigs will disappear anytime soon.
While the reasons for why British lawyers still wear wigs today are complex and multifaceted, it is clear that the tradition is deeply rooted in the history and culture of the UK. As the legal system continues to evolve and adapt to changing times, it will be interesting to see how this tradition is upheld and how it may change in the future.
FAQs
Q: Do all British lawyers wear wigs in court?
A: No, only certain types of lawyers, such as barristers and judges, wear wigs in court.
Q: How long do wigs typically last?
A: Wigs can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
Q: Are wigs still made from horsehair?
A: No, most modern wigs are made from synthetic materials or real hair.
Q: Do other countries use wigs in their legal systems?
A: Yes, wigs are also used in the legal systems of some former British colonies, such as Australia and Canada.