This October marks a historic milestone for the UK legal profession. According to the Bar Council, barristers are allowed to ditch their wigs for criminal cases if they find them "uncomfortable, or impractical."
The tradition of barristers wearing wigs in England has long been steeped in history. One of the most widely circulated origin stories traces it back to King Charles II. During his exile in France, Charles contracted syphilis, which caused significant hair loss. To maintain his regal image upon returning to England, he adopted the French aristocratic practice of wearing wigs.
This trend soon spread among the English upper and middle classes. Wigs became an indispensable part of their daily attire. Members of the judiciary and legal profession—who were seen as part of society's elite—also embraced this fashion.
By 1685, wigs were formally adopted as part of courtroom attire, cementing a tradition that has persisted for nearly three and a half centuries.
Supporters of the wig tradition argue that it symbolizes professionalism, authority, and dignity, while also providing a degree of protection. The use of wigs, which can obscure facial features, is thought to safeguard legal professionals from retaliation or harassment outside the courtroom.
However, critics contend that the tradition is outdated and culturally insensitive, as the wigs were originally designed for white Europeans.
The move to relax wig rules isn't entirely new. In 2007, wigs were no longer required during family or civil court appearances or when appearing before the Supreme Court of the UK.
Now, with the UK putting an end to the tradition of barristers wearing wigs in criminal courts, a legal custom that lasted nearly 350 years is finally brought to a close.
Related News:
1-minute News | From China to US: Can Luckin Coffee take a sip out of Starbucks' market?
1-minute News | Who robbed the Louvre? 8 jewels vanish in bold museum break-in
Comment