Why do court officials in britain wear horse hair wigs?

Question

Why do court officials in britain wear horse hair wigs?

Answer 1

BRITISH PEOPLE RED COAT!

Answer 2

Actually, beginning January 1, 2008, neither English barristers nor judges will wear the full-bottom wigs or elaborate robes while pleading family or civil cases, although judges (and presumably barristers) will continue to wear bob wigs and simplified robes during criminal trials.

According to Patrick J. Lyons, in "Cultural Flashpoints North of the Scalp,"  New York Times, 13 July 2007, "Gone will be the full-bottom wigs worn on ceremonial occasions; the smaller cheaper and much less uncomfortable bob wigs will do.  And a single simple robe design will replace the five different sets of formal robes that judges had to maintain for different court sittings and different times of year."

English barristers who defer to tradition argue that the costume is popular with defendants and links the Anglo-legal profession to history--or at least 16th century French court fashion.  On the other hand, the full-bottom wigs are expensive at $3,000 apiece, hot, smelly, and elitist, separating barristers from solicitors.  

Scottish court officials are still debating whether to wear the traditional  gowns and wigs come next January.

Answer 3

To show they are horse's a-s-s-'s

Answer 4

TRADITIONS!? GUESS THEY WANT TO COVER THEIR BALD HEADEDNESS!!

Answer 5

Just like #1 answered, tradition.  When you inspired the American Judicial system, you can brag.  And by maintaining their own traditions, they maintain some of the original Latin law idea's founded by the Romans.

Answer 6

A tradition that goes back to before america was discovered and then invaded and occupied by chimp as8es whose arrogant and ignorant descendants now answer questions on Yahoo Answers about why British court officials wear horse hair wigs and think,in their tiny minds,that they are being funny.

Answer 7

They wear those wigs in all Commonwealth countries...they wear them in France...I am sure that they are worn else were too

They are worn out of respect for the judicial system...

Answer 8

A very long-standing tradition of formality in the court.  It was common in Canada until the early 1980's as well.

Answer 9

Because cow hair doesn't look as good.