UP Lawyers Get Dress Code; Court Said 'One Had Face Pack On, One In Vest'

Sounding a warning, the Allahabad High Court said it will not ignore any more 'casual appearances' by lawyers during virtual court hearings.

Lawyers appearing in colored shirts, vests, or even while riding a scooter during the hearings in virtual mode amid the Covid pandemic is highly inappropriate and unacceptable, said the Allahabad High Court taking a dim view of the sartorial choices of the professionals. "Appearance of advocates in casual attire is very inappropriate and unacceptable in any circumstance. Advocates should understand that their appearance for hearing of cases through virtual mode from their house or office or chamber is like an extended court room and it is as serious as attending a proceeding inside a court," a single judge bench of the court said in its order on Wednesday. It then went on to prescribe a dress code for lawyers. "They are required to wear 'Plain White Shirt/White Salwar- Kameez/White Saree With Plain White Neck Band' while appearing through virtual mode from a premise where while addressing the court, they have decent and presentable background with peaceful surrounding and to remain attentive towards the court. It would be appreciated if they wear black coat also," the court ruled."Today while hearing the present case through virtual mode, an advocate, appearing on behalf of one of the parties, appeared wearing a colored shirt and has not shown any remorse even after an objection was raised on his conduct. The court has shown leniency in not imposing any cost on the erring advocate," it added.