 BRITAIN'S lawyers and judges are to break with centuries-old tradition and cease wearing horsehair wigs of white fake curls in non-criminal cases.
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The Lord Chief Justice, Lord Phillips of Worth Matravers, said new dress rules would mean the requirement for the wigs, which British legal professionals have worn since the 17th century, would not be needed in civil or family court cases. Wing collars and bands can also be dispensed with in such cases according to the reforms, while judges will need just one gown in future instead of a variety of colourful outfits currently required. The wigs will still be worn in criminal courts.
“At present High Court judges have no less than five different sets of working dress, depending on the jurisdiction in which they are sitting and the season of the year,” Mr Phillips said. “After widespread consultation it has been decided to simplify this.” |