Why Do Lawyers Wear Black?

Lawyers are universally recognized as the epitome of sartorial elegance, distinguished by their unique black and white attire. A dress code serves as a tangible representation of discipline, confidence, and professionalism, constituting a source of pride and a reflection of an individual's character. Just like other professions, each field has its own distinctive dress code, allowing its members to be readily identified. Doctors, for instance, are identifiable by their white aprons, while engineers don helmets as part of their attire. Lawyers, too, adhere to this practice.

From the inception of their noble profession, lawyers have steadfastly adhered to a dress code characterized by the harmonious combination of black and white. This dress code strikes a delicate balance, upholding the solemn decorum of the court while providing a platform for personal expression. Professional environments typically enforce specific dress codes, prescribing both colour and style of clothing. The dress code itself embodies notions of dignity and professionalism, with only a few exceptions. Notably, the robes worn by judges and advocates serve as a powerful symbol, embodying their unwavering respect and commitment to the pursuit of justice within the court.

Despite the consistent colour scheme in lawyers' attire, the dress code may vary from country to country. The legal profession is often deemed to possess one of the most refined and elegant dress codes among all vocations. In certain European countries, lawyers sport traditional black-winged jackets as an additional layer over their customary attire. As an illustrative example, both male and female lawyers in countries like India and Sri Lanka adhere to this dress code. Nevertheless, most lawyers across the globe opt for a fusion of white and black formal wear. It is commonplace to observe lawyers wearing black suits, accompanied by black ties and matching shoes.

?

Have you ever wondered why lawyers wear black?

The colour black encompasses a diverse range of meanings, encompassing both negative and positive associations. It is frequently connected with concepts such as death, mystery, and adversity. However, it also carries positive connotations of authority, elegance, and resilience. The interpretation of black can vary depending on cultural, personal, or contextual perspectives. Regarding resilience, black possesses the remarkable ability to absorb all other colours, symbolizing the capacity to remain strong in the face of challenges. This characteristic is often associated with determination and unwavering resolve. Furthermore, black is renowned for its power, elegance, and formality. It is considered a hue of sophistication and prestige, commonly found in formal attire and professional environments. In these particular contexts, black serves as a symbol of authority, professionalism, and a profound sense of seriousness.

?

The cultural and historical significance of black attire.

The rationale behind dress codes often attracts our curiosity. The choice of the black and white code is far from arbitrary. The black coats or robes worn by lawyers and judges carry a profound historical significance that traces its roots back to 17th century England. It originated with the introduction of mourning robes following the demise of King Charles II in 1685. Subsequently, black and white gowns were adopted as the standard attire for lawyers. This ensemble consisted of wigs and gowns, providing a sense of anonymity for judges and lawyers alike.

In tandem with these developments, the English Judicial Uniform underwent codification in 1635, establishing the usage of black robes paired with light-coloured fur or coats for winter, and violet or scarlet robes with short-pink taffeta for summer. The Judges, barristers, and solicitors in England adorned themselves with black coats, gowns, white bands, and traditional wigs, which eventually became the officially recognized dress code.

It is worth noting that the British initially embraced these customs based on prevailing fashion trends of their time or perhaps due to local climatic conditions. As rulers, they imposed their culture and traditions upon their colonies without considering local requirements or socio-economic factors. Nevertheless, many of these colonies carried forward this legacy, embracing the same system, culture, laws, and even attire without substantial modifications, even after gaining independence from the British Empire.

?

Queen Anne’s influence in wearing black.

Queen Anne, the last ruler of the Stuart dynasty, governed Great Britain and Ireland from 1702 to 1714. Despite her desire for an independent rule, her limited intellectual abilities and chronic illness compelled her to rely on ministers, a reality that became increasingly evident. When Queen Anne passed away in 1714, lawyers initiated the practice of wearing black robes as a tribute to her memory. This custom was influenced by the queen's personal fondness for black garments, leaving a lasting impact on society, including the legal field. The adoption of black robes by lawyers came to symbolize seriousness, authority, and professionalism. In contemporary times, lawyers commonly wear black robes or gowns in courtrooms and other formal legal settings, serving as a visual representation of their steadfast commitment to upholding the law and pursuing justice.

Black has a meaning! Black portrays authority!

Black was chosen for a couple of reasons. Firstly, in the past, colours and dyes were not easily accessible, and purple was associated with royalty, leaving black as the most readily available fabric colour. Secondly, black is regarded as a colour of authority and dominance, representing submission to a particular entity. For instance, priests wear black coats to display their submission to God, while lawyers wear black to demonstrate their submission to justice. Black is a prominent colour that exudes elegance, and individuals wearing black outfits often exude impact and sophistication. Lawyers wearing black coats are considered remarkably elegant and powerful.

In the courtroom, judges and lawyers always adhere to a standard and respectable dress code. One might wonder why such a dress code exists and why advocates consistently wear black coats in courtrooms. The answer is both intriguing and complex. The lawyers and judges are professionals serving within a country's judicial system, contributing to the maintenance of its legal framework. As warriors in the battle for justice, they must be easily identifiable as they enter the arena to defend the system. This battle for justice takes place within the courtroom.

There is a saying, "Dress how you want to be addressed." Presenting oneself in such attire leaves a positive impression on others. White represents calmness, purity, goodness, and innocence, while black was chosen to complement it. Black signifies that attorneys' arguments are based on reality without embellishment, and white is associated with hope, implying that the court represents the last hope for the common man.

As the legal system serves as the only hope for justice for the ordinary citizen, white was chosen to represent them. Lawyers for both the petitioner and respondent adhere to a similar dress code. The significance of the colour also underscores the fact that the law is impartial; it distinguishes solely based on the weight of evidence and not on any other factor.

The black robe adds seriousness to the identity of an advocate and lends a distinct visual character to their professional image. Wearing a black robe instils a sense of discipline among lawyers and empowers them as guardians of rights and justice. Black is a symbol of dignity, honour, wisdom, and justice - values that every attorney and judge must uphold. The black robe conveys a message of authority, knowledge, meticulousness, and steadfastness.

Black signifies opacity, suggesting that the positions of the prosecution and defence are unknown until they are substantiated by law, hence the term 'Black Gowns'. In the American criminal justice system, attorneys, as "Officers of the Court," are expected to uphold the dignity of the court by adhering to the rules of decorum. Traditionally, English courts regulated the dress code of barristers to the extent that even the growth of a lawyer's beard or the cut of their clothing was subject to scrutiny. South Asian countries, like Sri Lanka and India, adopted the system along with the dress code after British rule, with minor modifications over time.

?

Conclusion

The black attire worn by lawyers carries a profound significance and exudes a captivating appeal. It symbolizes their unwavering dedication to the judicial system and reinforces their sense of responsibility within their profession. Beyond being a mere status symbol, the dress code fosters discipline among lawyers and imbues them with the confidence and fortitude to champion justice. It also distinguishes lawyers, granting them a unique identity among other professionals.

Maintaining appropriate attire in the courtroom is of utmost importance, given the profound respect for the judicial system and its participants. Judges may refuse to grant an audience to attorneys who are dressed inappropriately. Hence, all individuals involved in court proceedings must adhere to a specific dress code, with the primary principle being conservative attire. Wearing casual or unkempt clothing in the courtroom is perceived as a sign of disrespect towards the law.

Appearance plays a significant role in the legal profession. Lawyers must earn the trust of their clients, judges, and juries. The adage "the first impression is the lasting impression" holds true in this context. Therefore, it is crucial for lawyers to dress professionally in order to inspire trust and confidence from clients, judges, fellow lawyers, the jury, and society.?