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01/10/2008
Horse Hair Today, New Gowns Tomorrow For Judges
As autumn winds begin to breeze through the UK, some judges in England and Wales may feel the chill slightly more - on the top of their heads.
From today, white horsehair wigs - traditionally worn by UK judges - will be abandoned, dawning a new dress code for the judiciary.
However, the simpler dress style will only apply to judges presiding over civil and family cases.
Those hearing criminal cases will still wear the 17th Century attire.
The government has recommended new plain black robes and bare heads for civil and family judges - a move supported by the Lord Chief Justice, Lord Philips.
Lord Philips, head of the court system in England and Wales, sanctioned the amendments in order to modernise the courts - amid discontentment within the legal profession.
Wigs were the epitome of fashion during the 17th Century, a trend that filtered into the courtroom.
The coarse headgear soon became an emblem of the British legal system.
Traditionalists have argued the wigs gave judges authority and impartiality.
Commentators have also insisted on the virtues of providing the judiciary with some level of anonymity - by covering part of their heads.
Barrister and author of 'Rumpole of the Bailey', John Mortimer, has strongly opposed the changes.
He previously wrote: "The idea's ridiculous! A barrister without his wig would be like a doctor without a stethoscope."
Last year a Ministry of Justice survey last year found 70% of court workers wanted to keep wigs, compared to 42% of the public.
Some have suggested the wigs are a hangover from the past, which can intimidate people in court.
(PR/JM)
From today, white horsehair wigs - traditionally worn by UK judges - will be abandoned, dawning a new dress code for the judiciary.
However, the simpler dress style will only apply to judges presiding over civil and family cases.
Those hearing criminal cases will still wear the 17th Century attire.
The government has recommended new plain black robes and bare heads for civil and family judges - a move supported by the Lord Chief Justice, Lord Philips.
Lord Philips, head of the court system in England and Wales, sanctioned the amendments in order to modernise the courts - amid discontentment within the legal profession.
Wigs were the epitome of fashion during the 17th Century, a trend that filtered into the courtroom.
The coarse headgear soon became an emblem of the British legal system.
Traditionalists have argued the wigs gave judges authority and impartiality.
Commentators have also insisted on the virtues of providing the judiciary with some level of anonymity - by covering part of their heads.
Barrister and author of 'Rumpole of the Bailey', John Mortimer, has strongly opposed the changes.
He previously wrote: "The idea's ridiculous! A barrister without his wig would be like a doctor without a stethoscope."
Last year a Ministry of Justice survey last year found 70% of court workers wanted to keep wigs, compared to 42% of the public.
Some have suggested the wigs are a hangover from the past, which can intimidate people in court.
(PR/JM)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
