It was once a symbol of sophistication:
Legal practice in a well-established legal system has been prevalent in the United Kingdom for many centuries. The legal profession has always been considered an elite occupation. Wigs were a fashion statement in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. To reinforce the idea that law is a sophisticated field of practice, and that lawyers are sophisticated, well-dressed, and elite individuals, lawyers once started wearing wigs. Maybe in the present scenario, wigs are no longer a fashionable item, but this practice has evolved into a custom.
It is a custom:
Wearing wigs was a part of barristers’ costume in the United Kingdom. This practice became well established in the 17th century and had been continuing ever since. As wearing a black robe is an important wardrobe compulsion for lawyers, donning wigs is also essential in the same manner. Once introduced for its fashion-ability or distinctiveness, the wearing of wigs over one’s head in the field of legal practice has now become a tradition. This is why lawyers and judges wear wigs even today. Customs and traditions, in itself, influence laws to a great extent, especially since they form the genesis for any legislation. It has become an indispensable part of one’s attire because of its acceptance as an age-old practice.
The factor of distinction:
In the past, as well as the future, the costume of lawyers has served as a symbol of distinction. Black robes, white neckbands, and wigs are exclusive to persons who indulge in the legal profession. Wearing of the conventional costume meant specifically for their job gives lawyers a distinct identity. It becomes easier to recognize the profession of a lawyer when he/she is in the traditional costume. Therefore another factor to consider when debating the validity of wigs as a part of lawyers’ attire is the added connotation of distinctness. Wigs, along with the entire costume of lawyers, make look distinct and separate from the rest of the people.
Anonymity:
Another reason why the wearing of wigs is prevalent practice in modern times is because of the degree of anonymity that it provides. In the legal profession, factors such as facial features and looks should not be considered important. The main focus should be on the arguments and mannerisms. Wearing wigs to a certain extent enhances the anonymity of the individual representing his/her client in a court of law.
All of these reasons elaborate on why lawyers wear wigs. This custom of wearing wigs as a part of one’s costume is a leftover tradition of British rule in the commonweal.
