“It has recently been brought to my attention that generally accepted dress standards of the Legal Profession are not being followed by certain sitting Judges, Professional Magistrates and members of the Bar who appear before the Courts. “Judges and Professional Magistrates are reminded of the requirement to be fully robed in a Wig and Gown, for Court sittings at all times,” the circular read in part. If further outlined attires that were acceptable to be worn underneath the robes, among others: appropriately formal dark dress or suit (black), barrister’s trousers with Bar waistcoat, white tunic shirt or white blouse with collar/collarette, court band tie/bibs, studs, and stiffeners to be accompanied by dark socks and black shoes. The circular signed by the CJ continued: “It is important to note that dressing in this manner helps to preserve decorum, seriousness and formality of court proceedings and the importance of the proper administration of justice. It ended with an order for Judges and Professional Magistrates to ensure that members of the Bar who appear before the Bar strictly comply with the dress standards when they appear before the courts.
