Why Do Judges and Lawyers Wear Wigs?

The tradition of wearing wigs and black robes originates from England and is seen as a symbol of the judicial system, ensuring the anonymity of judges and lawyers during trials.

In countries that follow Common Law, it is common to see judges and lawyers wearing black robes and white wigs during court hearings, especially in criminal trials. These accessories were once mandatory, and lawyers who did not wear wigs were even considered disrespectful to the participants in the trial.

Where did the wig originate, and why did it become a mandatory accessory for legal participants in the past?

In the 16th century, sy.philis began spreading across Europe, leading to an increase in cases of baldness and hair loss. Wigs started becoming popular as people used them to cover their hair loss.

However, wigs became truly fashionable when King Louis XIV of France, during his reign from 1643 to 1715, began wearing a wig to hide his bald head, which many suspected was due to sy.philis. From then on, wigs became a symbol of 17th-century fashion, and the upper and middle classes in Europe used them to showcase their social status.

King Charles II of England later imported wigs from France, believing that wearing them represented wealth and power, marking those who wore them as being of higher social standing than commoners.

Wigs were usually made from expensive horsehair, with prices ranging from around $600 for short wigs to over $3,000 for long ones.

In 1685, King Charles II ordered judges and lawyers in England to wear wigs, believing that it added solemnity to court proceedings and emphasized the authority and prestige of judges and lawyers.

Additionally, wigs helped ensure the anonymity of judges and lawyers, separating them from personal issues and ensuring impartiality. This helped ensure fair decisions, irrespective of race, ethnicity, income, social status, or political views.

Interestingly, wigs were never washed or cleaned, as it was believed that the older and darker the wig, the more experienced the judge or lawyer appeared.

Wigs became a symbol of the law, particularly important in criminal trials. Lawyers not wearing a wig were seen as disrespectful to the court.

By the 18th century, under King Charles III, wigs were no longer a mainstream fashion trend. However, they remained an important part of judicial culture and courtroom attire in England, Europe, and countries following the Common Law system.

By the 20th and 21st centuries, wigs were no longer commonly used. Today, only England and some former British colonies still use wigs for ceremonial purposes.

For regular court sessions, judges and lawyers still wear wigs, but they have been shortened for comfort, with the wigs for lawyers cut to reveal part of the forehead and the hair in front.