3 Reasons Why British Lawyers Wigs Are Still Worn Today

British Lawyers Wigs: A History

British lawyers have worn wigs for centuries. The first recorded instance of a lawyer wearing a wig in court was in the 16th century. At the time, wigs were worn by men as a sign of respectability and authority. Lawyers began to wear wigs to imitate the judges, who wore wigs to distinguish themselves from the common people.

Over time, wigs became a symbol of the legal profession in Britain. Today, all lawyers in the United Kingdom are required to wear wigs when they appear in court. There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as lawyers who are representing themselves or who are appearing in certain types of courts.

Why Do British Lawyers Still Wear Wigs?

There are several reasons why British lawyers still wear wigs today. One reason is that wigs help to create a sense of formality and tradition in the courtroom. Wigs also help to distinguish lawyers from other people in the courtroom, such as the judge and the jury.

Another reason why British lawyers still wear wigs is that they help to create a sense of equality in the courtroom. When all lawyers wear the same type of wig, it helps to level the playing field and ensures that all lawyers are treated fairly.

Finally, wigs help to protect lawyers from being identified by witnesses or jurors. In some cases, witnesses or jurors may be intimidated by lawyers if they can see their faces. Wigs help to create a barrier between lawyers and witnesses or jurors, which can help to protect lawyers from being harassed or threatened.

Types of British Lawyers Wigs

There are two main types of British lawyers wigs:

• Full-bottomed wigs: These wigs are made from horsehair and are worn by barristers, who are the most senior type of lawyer in the United Kingdom. Full-bottomed wigs are very elaborate and can be quite expensive.
• Short wigs: These wigs are made from synthetic hair and are worn by solicitors, who are the most common type of lawyer in the United Kingdom. Short wigs are less elaborate than full-bottomed wigs and are less expensive.

How to Choose a British Lawyers Wig

If you are a lawyer in the United Kingdom, you will need to choose a wig that is appropriate for your level of seniority. Barristers should wear full-bottomed wigs, while solicitors should wear short wigs.

When choosing a wig, it is important to consider the following factors:

• The size of your head: You will need to measure your head to make sure that you choose a wig that fits properly.
• The shape of your face: You will want to choose a wig that is flattering to your face shape.
• Your personal style: You will want to choose a wig that you feel comfortable wearing.

How to Care for a British Lawyers Wig

British lawyers wigs require special care to keep them looking their best. Here are a few tips for caring for your wig:

• Store your wig in a cool, dry place: Do not store your wig in a plastic bag, as this can trap moisture and cause the wig to deteriorate.
• Wash your wig regularly: You should wash your wig about once a month. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner, and be sure to rinse the wig thoroughly.
• Dry your wig on a wig stand: Do not hang your wig to dry, as this can cause the wig to stretch and lose its shape.
• Brush your wig gently: Use a soft brush to brush your wig when it is dry. Do not brush your wig too often, as this can damage the hair.

British Lawyers Wigs: A Tradition That Is Here to Stay

British lawyers wigs are a centuries-old tradition that is still going strong today. There are many reasons why British lawyers still wear wigs, including the sense of formality and tradition they create, the sense of equality they promote, and the protection they provide from being identified by witnesses or jurors. If you are a lawyer in the United Kingdom, you will need to choose a wig that is appropriate for your level of seniority and that fits your personal style. With proper care, your wig will last for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About British Lawyers Wigs

• Why do British lawyers wear wigs?
  There are several reasons why British lawyers still wear wigs today. One reason is that wigs help to create a sense of formality and tradition in the courtroom. Wigs also help to distinguish lawyers from other people in the courtroom, such as the judge and the jury. Another reason why British lawyers still wear wigs is that they help to create a sense of equality in the courtroom. When all lawyers wear the same type of wig, it helps to level the playing field and ensures that all lawyers are treated fairly. Finally, wigs help to protect lawyers from being identified by witnesses or jurors. In some cases, witnesses or jurors may be intimidated by lawyers if they can see their faces. Wigs help to create a barrier between lawyers and witnesses or jurors, which can help to protect lawyers from being harassed or threatened.

• What are the different types of British lawyers wigs?
  There are two main types of British lawyers wigs:

  • Full-bottomed wigs: These wigs are made from horsehair and are worn by barristers, who are the most senior type of lawyer in the United Kingdom. Full-bottomed wigs are very elaborate and can be quite expensive.
  • Short wigs: These wigs are made from synthetic hair and are worn by solicitors, who are the most common type of lawyer in the United Kingdom. Short wigs are less elaborate than full-bottomed wigs and are less expensive.

• How do I choose a British lawyers wig?
  If you are a lawyer in the United Kingdom, you will need to choose a wig that is appropriate for your level of seniority. Barristers should wear full-bottomed wigs, while solicitors should wear short wigs. When choosing a wig, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • The size of your head: You will need to measure your head to make sure that you choose a wig that fits properly.
  • The shape of your face: You will want to choose a wig that is flattering to your face shape.
  • Your personal style: You will want to choose a wig that you feel comfortable wearing.

• How do I care for a British lawyers wig?
  British lawyers wigs require special care to keep them looking their best. Here are a few tips for caring for your wig:

  • Store your wig in a cool, dry place: Do not store your wig in a plastic bag, as this can trap moisture and cause the wig to deteriorate.
  • Wash your wig regularly: You should wash your wig about once a month. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner, and be sure to rinse the wig thoroughly.
  • Dry your wig on a wig stand: Do not hang your wig to dry, as this can cause the wig to stretch and lose its shape.
  • Brush your wig gently: Use a soft brush to brush your wig when it is dry. Do not brush your wig too often, as this can damage the hair.