On October 13, 2023, the Delhi High Court issued a significant order that mandates lawyers appearing before the court to wear gowns, effective from November 1, 2023, and until further notice. This directive supersedes a prior notice issued on March 6, 2023, which had outlined different regulations concerning lawyers’ attire.
The recent order, as reported by Bar and Bench, underscores the importance of lawyers donning gowns as part of their professional attire while practicing in the Delhi High Court. This decision aligns with various legal traditions where court attire, including gowns, symbolizes a formal and professional appearance.
Members of the legal community in Delhi are expected to comply with this requirement, and legal professionals have been given a brief transition period to prepare for this attire change. Commencing on November 1, 2023, lawyers representing clients in the Delhi High Court will be required to wear gowns during court proceedings.
This development harmonizes the Delhi High Court’s practices with those of several other Indian courts that have long enforced the tradition of lawyers wearing gowns. The objective is to maintain a decorous and professional atmosphere within the courtroom, and the adoption of formal attire, such as gowns, is seen as a meaningful step in this direction.
It is important to note that this requirement will continue to be in effect until the Delhi High Court issues further orders or modifications. Therefore, legal practitioners in Delhi should make the necessary preparations to adhere to this new dress code when representing their clients before the court.
