Modernising the Courts Means More Wigs
The Government always seems to be introducing some sort of ‘modernising’ initiative or other and in recent years the legal profession has had to deal with a great number of changes aimed at modernising the law.
One very curious form of ‘modernisation’ was introduced recently when solicitor advocates were given the right (previously reserved for barristers) to wear wigs in court when members of the Bar would ordinarily be allowed to wear them. This ruling will mean that solicitor advocates will be able to ‘wig up’ when appropriate in the Magistrates’, Crown and County Courts.
The ruling is aimed at removing what was described as ‘an unjustified advantage’ for the Bar.
Partner Note
Change introduced under a practice direction applicable from 2 January 2008.