Legal
7 Gift Ideas For Lawyers
There are many celebrations throughout the year where you can get the perfect gift for the lawyer you know. Whether it’s their birthday, Christmas or graduation from law school, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best gifts for a lawyer that are bound to bring a smile to their face. Shop Gifts for Lawyers Now Professional Gifts For Lawyers Some presents are more practical and professional when it comes to planning the perfect gift for a lawyer. These will help them in their day to day life as a lawyer, giving them an edge in the field and personalising their chosen career. 1. Lawyer Wig One of the best gifts to get a lawyer is the quintessential lawyer’s wig. It makes for a great practical gift that the lawyer can use in their day-to-day life in court. Whether it’s a barrister’s wig, the judge’s wig or the full-bottomed wig, you’re guaranteed to help their professional career improve and blossom with this gift. 2. Lawyer Gown Another ideal gift to get a lawyer or barrister that can be essential for days in court is a lawyer’s gown. A lawyer’s gown enhances the professionalism of the lawyer and marks them as a representative of justice and the law. To add a sense of formality to court proceedings, get a new graduate their gown to get them off to a good start in their career. 3. Certificate Display Frame Having a display frame to showcase your certificates is a great way for a lawyer to have their accomplishments memorialised. Gifting a certificate display frame to the lawyer you know will allow them to take pride in their certificates and give them a smart and professional way to accessorise their office. 4. Personalised Pen Set The life of a lawyer involves a lot of writing so add a personal touch to a lawyer’s life by getting them a personalised pen set. This is a professional gift that can help them in their day-to-day life as well as providing them with a gift that they can get a lot of practical use out of. The personalised touch is also a good way to help a new lawyer get settled into their new job. Fun Gifts For a Lawyer Aside from enhancing the professional aspect of their career, it’s also important to add a sense of fun and flair to a lawyer’s career whether it’s a longstanding one or a burgeoning one. These gifts can help them to feel more at home in the office and add a unique style to their day to day life. 5. Lawyer Mugs Gifting the lawyer you know a mug is a fun and easy way to help them add a homely feel to the office, allowing them to drink their tea or coffee in style. There’s a wide variety of lawyer mugs to choose from as well. You can gift them a funny mug with humorous quotes or images on them or get them a more professionally styled one. Whatever suits the lawyer best, you’re bound to find the perfect gift mug for them. 6. Lawyer Cufflinks Lawyer cufflinks are a great way to add a sense of personal flair and style to a lawyer’s wardrobe and come in a variety of fun and unique designs. Lawyer cufflinks add personality to any professional suit and make the perfect gift for the lawyer who’s looking for an understated way to express themselves at work. 7. Desk Ornaments If the lawyer you know is looking to spruce up their desk and add a bit more personalisation to their office, a good gift idea could be to get them a desk ornament. Some great lawyer-themed desk ornaments can include a scales of justice ornament or a personalised gavel and sound block. This is a great way to help the lawyer you know add a bit more decor to their office and make their desk a little more fun and stylish. There are dozens of gifts to get for the special lawyer in your life, whether they’ve been a lawyer for years, are a recent graduate or still studying. When it comes to buying a gift for a lawyer, there’s always something for everyone so get that special something for the lawyer you know and add some unique flair to their life and career. Shop Gifts for Lawyers Now
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How to Become a Barrister: 6 Things You Didn't Know About a Barristers Job
Pursuing a career as a barrister can be rewarding especially if you understand the role and responsibilities of a barrister. We’ve compiled six things you didn’t know about barristers’ jobs to help make this career path a little easier to understand and give you a better idea of the jobs you can choose from when following a career in law. Shop Legal Wear 1. Belonging to One of the Inns of Court To become a barrister in the UK, you must already be a part of or join one of the four inns of court based in London. These are Grey’s Inn, Lincoln Inn, Inner Temple and Middle Temple. These are historical associations that were responsible for legal education and they provide both a supervisory and disciplinary support system which is a vital aspect of the role of a barrister. These professional associations provide support for barristers and students studying for the Bar to become barrister, often providing financial aid to those who need it. They also provide a number of events to help increase an understanding of the responsibilities of a barrister known as InnSight events. This can involve talks from lawyers and judges about the process towards graduation and what their careers entail. 2. Barristers Have Different Employment Salaries Some barristers are self-employed and others are employed by a firm. Those who are self-employed will find that their income will not include the benefits of a company salary such as pension, holiday pay and medical pay. The effect this has on a barrister will depend on what kind of law they have chosen to work in. With the various different specialisms within law, you are bound to find something that suits you with a competitive and rewarding salary. For example, civil law barristers working in areas such as tax law will earn salaries as high as £55,000 per year for an entry level position, allowing new employees to reap several work benefits and feel comfortable in their chosen career path. 3. Days Spent in Court When it comes to considering how to become a barrister, many believe a barrister’s job description includes a lot of work inside courtrooms. This will depend entirely on each individual case and also the type of law you’re specialising in. Family law barristers may only go to court a handful of times over the course of their career but other types of barristers in the civil or criminal fields may find they have to spend more time in court. This can include a whole day’s worth of sessions, evenings and even weekends, adding significantly to the responsibilities of a barrister and testing the graduate’s commitment and dedication to their new role.. 4. Barristers Are Rarely Hired by Clients Barristers often get their work through consultation with a solicitor hired by the client. The role of a barrister is simply to provide a number of services such as legal advice and representing clients in court. A barrister’s specialism is in courtroom advocacy which is essentially the written or oral means by which a barrister presents a case to court. The responsibilities of a barrister in court involves a number of skills ranging from case analysis to cross-examination and skeleton arguments. Advocacy skills are at their core a performance, one that barristers must hone to be as successful as possible. 5. Wearing A Barrister’s Outfit The typical barrister outfit is described as ‘business attire’ and is often an essential part of going to court, helping you to look more professional. There are different dress requirements when it comes to wearing a barrister outfit so it’s important to make sure you are always dressed properly and appropriately. While typically a barrister outfit consists of smart formal dress such as a crisp white shirt and a black blazer, sometimes barristers will have to wear more specialised clothes. For example, when you are called to the bar, Gray’s Inn requires male callees to wear a white-winged collared shirt or a court shirt while female callees will wear their barrister gown over a white court shirt or a white collarette paired with a white top. You may also find yourself wearing the classic gown and barrister wig in court to maintain a formal professionalism and symbolise the power and history of the law. 6. Obtaining Pupillage Pupillage is an important step on your road to becoming a barrister and even more importantly it’s the final step before you are properly qualified. It involves applying for an apprenticeship to be a part of the Bar and is completed in chambers. All you have to do is visit the Pupillage Gateway through January and the beginning of February where you can submit up to twenty applications to various chambers. You can also directly apply to chambers that are not a part of the Pupillage Gateway scheme. Just don’t forget to register your pupillage with the Bar Standards Board and your chosen Inn of Court. Becoming a barrister is a long and daunting process that takes you through a number of intensive steps that teach you everything about the responsibilities of a barrister and the role you will undertake. Finally becoming a qualified and independent barrister is the reward for all your hard work and while the role of a barrister involves a lot of training, once you’ve settled into your chosen specialism, you’ll only have a long and rewarding career ahead of you. Shop Legal Wear
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6 Reasons to Become a Lawyer
Becoming a lawyer provides a rewarding career path, allowing you to help make a social and personal difference to people’s lives. Whatever branch of the law you’re thinking of specialising in, you will find something that makes your choice worthwhile. If you’re having trouble deciding, we’ve compiled six reasons on why you should become a lawyer that can also hopefully give you some guidance on how to become a lawyer. Shop Legal Wear 1. Specialisation in Your Career As we’ve already mentioned, when you’re thinking about how to become a lawyer, one of the first things you’ll encounter will be choosing a specific branch to focus on depending on where your interests and talents lie. Whether you’re looking to go into family law, criminal law or corporate law, you will be able to follow your interests and use your chosen branch to help people, giving you personal and professional fulfillment. 2. A Professional and Formal Career It’s important to remember that being a lawyer comes with a lot of responsibility, making it the perfect career choice for those of you who like hard work and are dedicated to long hours and research in order to get the best result for their clients. This will include wearing professional and formal clothes as your lawyer outfit, allowing you to look respectable and trustworthy to your client and when you’re in court or a meeting, helping you to make a good impression. 3. Advancement Along Your Career Path Being a lawyer provides a lot of opportunities to progress to higher levels of responsibility, allowing you to cover more of the duties of a lawyer and become more in control of your career and your cases. Advancement options include progressing from associate to partner within your law firm and gaining more seniority and authority in the office. You could also eventually open up a private practice or a pro bono practice, giving you full control over your duties as a lawyer and allowing you to carry out cases and hire a team on your terms. 4. Competitive Annual Salary It’s always worth noting that being a lawyer pays well, giving you plenty of financial stability. When you’re applying for a beginner’s lawyer job, trainees are often paid an average of £20-23,000 per year with the salary rising to around £50, 000 for associate lawyers and associate solicitors. Progressing higher through your law firm to the position of a partner will be able to earn you an average of £70, 000. This kind of high salary can provide a number of benefits for you including medical and dental expenses, life insurance and being a part of your firm’s profit sharing team. 5. High Level of Reputation The more you work as a lawyer, the more recognition you’ll get in your field. This can help to build your reputation amongst prospective clients as well as in the courtroom, allowing you to take on more cases of prestige and enhance your career in law. Your reputation within the law industry will grant you a higher level of influence, allowing you to make a more significant change in society and the lives of your clients, proving further how beneficial progressing in the field of law can be. 6. Transferable Skills If nothing else, following a career in law for a while will allow you to build up experience in a professional industry and learn valuable skills concerning research, writing and managing large cases and workloads. These transferable skills translate well to a number of academic jobs, such as going into lecturing, journalism, accountancy or legal management to name just a few. If you decide being a lawyer isn’t for you in the end, you’ll have plenty of options to fall back on to help you take your career in a different direction. When you’re thinking about why to become a lawyer, it’s important to make sure you are thinking long-term. Becoming a lawyer is a huge commitment and the duties of a lawyer are varied and can seem daunting to someone who is unprepared. Ultimately though, being a lawyer provides a number of rewards for both your professional and personal life and even if you don’t stick with the career long-term, you will still learn valuable skills and lessons and have the pride of having helped a lot of people during your career. Shop Legal Wear
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5 Things You Didn't Know About Court
Courthouses have been around for a long time, playing host to any number of cases from murder trials to juvenile misdemeanours. The court system is a large and varied body of judges, lawyers and judiciary systems so understanding some of the courts and finer traditions of the law can significantly help with deciding what career in law is best for you. Shop Legal Wear Now 1. The Magistrates’ Court There are different types of court depending on the case at hand. First, all criminal cases will go through the Magistrates’ court which is not presided over by a jury and deal with a number of different cases ranging from common assault to burglary and drug crimes. The most serious crimes such as murder and rape are passed from the Magistrates’ court to the Crown Court. The Magistrates’ court is also the court which will decide if prisoners can be released on bail till your next hearing or kept in custody. The sentences they pass out are often minor, issuing fines, community services and bans. In more important magistrate cases, they can sentence prisoners to up to 12 months in prison, depending on how many offences have occurred. 2. The Crown Court The Crown Court is reserved for the more prolific crimes which includes murder, rape and robbery and often comes with more severe penalties for the accused. Unlike the Magistrates’ court, the Crown Court has a jury during the trial. They are the ones who will pass verdict on whether the defendant is guilty or not while the judge decides on the sentencing. Crown Courts are also used to appeal against the rulings of the Magistrates’ court. Defendants can appeal against the conviction or sentence depending on whether they pleaded guilty or not guilty during their trial. 3. Youth Courts Youth courts operate similarly to the Magistrates’ court with the only difference being that the Youth court is for people between the ages of ten and seventeen. They handle the same cases with options for appeals against convictions and sentences with the primary punishments being either community service or a detention and training order. A detention and training order is split into two parts. The first half of the sentence will be spent in custody while the second half is spent in community service under supervision. More serious crimes can result in the prisoner having to spend longer in custody with sentencing ranging from anywhere between four months and two years. However if accused of murder, juvenile prisoners will still receive life sentences with the possibility of parole. 4. The Royal Coat of Arms Every court in the UK features the Royal Coat of Arms except for the Magistrates’ court in the City of London. It is a symbol of the court representing the crown and thus showing honour and respect to the ruling monarch before the beginning of each trial and court case. The appearance of the Royal Coat of Arms in court originated in 1399, instated by King Henry IV. Over the years, the crest has changed from monarch to monarch with a few monarchs such as Elizabeth I and Edward IV restoring it to Henry IV’s version during their reigns. The present Royal Coat of Arms features a Gaelic harp as opposed to the Irish harp of previous versions and features no specific Welsh symbol despite the country being a part of the Kingdom of England since Henry VIII’s reign. 5. The Supreme Court’s 12 Justices The 12 Justices of the Supreme Court are a separate entity from the government and Parliament, handling the cases which are of the highest public importance. As per the Parliamentary Human Rights Act of 1998, the justices apply the laws to cases with the most junior member of the panel addressing the other justices first to give their own assessment. Before the Supreme Court was formed, the twelve most senior judges resided in the House of Lords and were often known as Law Lords. The House of Lords was the most powerful court in the UK residing over the other courts and it was only with the creation of the Supreme Court that the law and parliament became separated. Understanding courthouses, their traditions, cases and relationships to other bodies in the UK is an important part of doing well in your law degree and preparing for your future career. Not only that, but it can also help you to learn more about the different roles so if you are undecided in what area of law you want to go into, a deeper understanding of how court works can only serve to benefit you as begin on your journey into law. If you’re a law student or just graduated you might be looking for some legal attire, at Evess we have a wide range of law attire to suit your needs, from barrister wigs to formal wear Shop Legal Wear Now
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What is the difference between a lawyer and a solicitor?
Law can seem complex and varied, comprised of a host of legal terms that can be a lot to wrap your head around as you study for your legal career. There are many different legal positions on offer, from lawyer and solicitor to barristers and legal associates but what is the difference between a lawyer and a solicitor and how can you choose which path is the best for you? What is a lawyer? Lawyer can generally be seen as an umbrella term for various different legal jobs. It essentially means anyone who is officially licensed to practice law and part of their job includes taking on clients to represent in court, giving legal aid and acting on behalf of clients for negotiations in lawsuits and settlement agreements. Lawyer includes everything from solicitors to barristers and arbitrators. Not every legal job makes you a lawyer though. Paralegals for example are not fully qualified lawyers though the administrative work and legal aid they provide to their law firm makes it a good entry-level position for recent graduates and opens the door to becoming a lawyer in the future. Significantly, lawyer is not an officially recognised job in the British legal world unlike in the United States. It does not describe any specific position in a law firm, meaning solicitor is a much more accurate term for someone working in law. However, you don’t have to have a law degree to become a lawyer. These days there are alternative routes into a career as a legal professional. Our guide to law conversion courses can help if you are interested in a career in the law but haven’t studied, or don’t want to study, for a law degree. What is a solicitor? Solicitors are the primary providers of legal aid and advice, handling the paperwork of the clients as well as any paperwork for potential court cases. Their job doesn’t generally take them to represent cases in court, instead holding the responsibility of finding alternative solutions for their clients such as settlements with the opposition. They are in charge of drafting new contracts and handling the clients’ issues, showcasing an in-depth knowledge of legal proceedings and an understanding of local law systems, enabling them to help clients as much as possible. This is vital for a solicitor as they will have regular face-to-face contact with a client to help build an understanding of their case. Solicitors can work in various types of law including criminal law, property law and family law. This means their responsibilities can include anything from assisting clients who have been released on bail to handling property sales and handling cases of domestic violence and child guardianship. What sort of cases do solicitors work on? Solicitors are lawyers who train in one or more specific areas of the law including; intellectual property, immigration, public law, human rights, corporate finance and tax, family law and many more. Generally, solicitors handle all legal proceedings that aren’t criminal cases. Solicitors are usually contacted by clients to advise on any legal issues they may be facing, including contract drafting, sales and acquisitions of businesses or property and the protection of intellectual property. After being contacted by a client, or ‘instructed’, solicitors will handle all the required legal proceedings including providing advice on the available courses of action, drafting legal documents, contracting other parties and all the required paperwork. If required by the case, solicitors will also negotiate on behalf of their client to secure relevant deals to ensure all parties are compliant in the legal proceedings, calculate compensation and settle damages. The most common instances where people will instruct the help of a solicitor is when buying or selling property. In these cases, a client will contact a solicitor who specialises in property law. They’ll be called on to draft a contract for the purchase or sale of the property and will handle the conveyancing of the property. Do solicitors go to court? Solicitors can go to court to advocate for their clients if necessary for the case, such as to settle a divorce or represent their client in a family law case. However, if the case is particularly complex or involves criminal charges, the solicitor will usually enlist the help of a barrister or specialist in that particular area of the law. This is due to the structure of the UK legal system and because barristers are specifically trained in defence and prosecution as part of their education. How do you become a solicitor? Until 2021, to become a solicitor you need to either study for an undergraduate law degree or pass the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), a conversion course that allows anyone educated to degree level in any subject to convert to become a lawyer. Once you have either of these qualifications, you will need to apply to study for the Legal Practice Course (LPC). This is a year-long, full-time course that covers legal issues and skills including; business law and practice, civil and criminal litigation, property law and practice and advising and advocacy. The LPC can also be split over two years as part-time study at some institutions. However, in 2021, a new qualification is being introduced to try and make becoming a lawyer more accessible and less costly. The Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) is a ‘super exam’ that is planned to replace the LPC. Split into two stages, the SQE assesses a candidate’s ability to apply legal knowledge and tests their legal skills in areas such as advocacy and legal drafting. This new qualification replaces the LPC and means, for people wishing to become solicitors, they’d no longer need to complete the GDL or LPC qualifications. However, candidates will need to educate themselves on the legal knowledge necessary to pass the SQE, so some sort of legal education may be required to gain a foundational understanding of the law. Additionally, applicants to the SQE are required to complete two years of qualifying work experience in up to four legal organisations. Other Types of Careers in Law As the term ‘lawyer’ is an umbrella term for more than just solicitors, it is also important to note the other differences between the various types of jobs in a law firm. Barristers Barristers are an important part of handling clients’ cases as they have the main responsibility of representing clients in court. Some of their responsibilities include examining and cross examining witnesses, reviewing and presenting evidence and preparing their opening and closing statements for a jury. This involves a lot of research and communication with other barristers and legal professionals Solicitors can also represent cases in court hearings but generally it is the duty of a barrister. Arbitrators Like solicitors, arbitrators work on ways to resolve disputes outside of a court setting. They specifically work in alternative dispute resolution. As they are often brought in as a neutral figure in disputes their judgments are not always legally binding and a client can progress the case to court if they so choose. They can handle a wide range of cases from player eligibility in sports, shipping disputes and employment disputes such as unfair employment termination. Part of their responsibility is to research and gather evidence from both sides of the dispute to ensure a fair decision is made for both parties involved. Mediators Mediators are common in cases that require someone to help resolve a dispute. This is a significant role in family law and property law in particular, presiding over cases that involve landlords and tenants, divorcing couples or custody battles. Different types of mediators will be needed depending on the case, whether it be a mediator with a family counselling background or one with deep commercial knowledge for professional disputes. Judges More often than not, judges have been some kind of lawyer for a while and have accumulated a lot of experience in the field. It is their responsibility to hold court and control hearings, issuing judgments and sentences impartially. They have the power to overrule objections from barristers, instruct the jury if the case has one and present their own questions to witnesses. Their work often takes them into chambers as well, establishing rules for court, making decisions on cases based on private counsel appeals and in some cases encourage settlements as a solution. Ultimately, lawyer represents a whole variety of jobs that can be found in a court or law firm with solicitors being one of the primary positions available and representing a broad definition of the general responsibilities of a lawyer, including some minor overlap with other jobs in the legal field. The main difference between a lawyer and a solicitor is in the definition of a lawyer being a representative term for all kinds of legal careers while a solicitor is a more specific description of the responsibilities you may have as you explore what you want to do with your future in law. If you are interested in a career in the law, check out our other blog posts focussed on the legal profession. And, if you’re already a practising legal professional, make sure you’re always looking your best with Tailor De Jure’s range of formal wear, legal gowns, legal wigs and legal accessories.
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What Different Jobs Can a Law Degree Get You?
Although one may be quick to assume that most people study law and get a law degree in the hopes of becoming a lawyer, it’s not as cut and dried as that. So, what different jobs can a law degree get you? Well, the list is fairly extensive and varies significantly, with roles both in and adjacent to the courtroom environment, and then there are the career options that have no official connection to legal proceedings. In this post, we’ll list a few of the different jobs a law degree can get you and highlight the ways in which your studies support roles within a range of industries. What different jobs can a law degree get you? Studying law and getting a degree takes time, which means many people often change their mind about the particular field or position they’d like to pursue following their studies. And it can be quite the daunting task to commit to a lane once you’re in the position to do so. To help, here’s a list of some potential jobs you can get with a law degree. Paralegal Paralegals are members of a legal team who tend to conduct client meetings, witness interviews, draft legal documents, and research cases. Daily duties include scheduling hearings, writing letters, meetings, attending trials, and administrative work in the office. Paralegals are essentially a support role for experienced lawyers, helping them stay on schedule and support their vital responsibilities. Legislative Assistant Legislative assistants are junior employees working for an experienced legislator. Their primary duties include drafting documents, editing legislation, and other written work supporting a legislator’s work. This type of role is perfect for gaining valuable experience for continued progression within the legal field. It can also be an ideal first step for gaining vital skills and knowledge before pivoting to a different career. Solicitor Solicitors are law professionals who typically carry out their duties in an office. Their responsibilities include discussing cases with clients and advising them on the best course of action moving forward. In many cases, solicitors are the first point of contact for law firms, and they’re often the first person who speaks to clients before working with a legal professional in court. Barrister Barristers are lawyers who specialise in litigation and advocacy. Unlike solicitors, who work in an office, barristers represent clients in court and provide advice and guidance while fighting cases on behalf of their clients. Barristers can specialise in a vast array of legal fields and represent clients in industries such as entertainment, finances, environment and much more. Therefore, a law degree offers the insight and knowledge to decide which field to pursue. Corporate Lawyer Corporate lawyers are commercial law specialists who work within the legal department of large organisations or corporations. Their duties can vary somewhat depending on the nature of the industry or specific requirements of the organisation. However, typical responsibilities include analysing the company’s contracts and transactions, assisting CEOs in making critical business decisions, and drafting employment contracts. The corporate field is perfect for degree students who have a passion for their profession but aren’t overly keen to work within the conventional legal system, such as courts. Risk Management Risk management is one of the most crucial aspects of running a business, especially for corporations and organisations where losses can be significant. Risk managers work for organisations and help them identify, analyse and prevent risks — risks that could pose serious concerns from a legal and ethical standpoint. This could relate to anything from business operations to finances to analysing competitors. Risk managers are a valuable resource for businesses, offering the potential for a lucrative and exciting career for those with law degrees. Mediator Mediators play an essential role in facilitating communication and negotiation between two opposing parties during legal disputes, such as divorce or custody cases. With an in-depth knowledge of the legal system and its various rules and regulations, mediators help clients find common ground and offer valuable solutions. Effective mediators possess the legal prowess to offer sound advice and traits such as empathy, friendliness and being approachable. Combine this with brilliant listening skills and effective problem solving, and you may just be a mediator in the making. Legal Journalist When asking ‘what different jobs can a law degree get you?’, you may be surprised to hear that a common answer is journalism. Successful law graduates tend to possess fantastic critical thinking, a keen eye for detail, and top-notch writing skills. If you’re considering a career in journalism where you can flex your legal muscles, you may want to look into law-focused newspapers, journals and websites featuring blog content. This type of job requires you to discuss a range of legal topics with readers, informing them about news, advice, trends and legislation changes. Dress for the Job You Want As the saying goes ‘dress for the job you want, not the job you have’, as your desired role is within the legal sector — or at least consists of duties revolving around the law — appropriate attire is a must. Although for many of the jobs listed above you’ll be perfectly fine wearing formal work attire such as a suit or smart blouse, other roles require more specific attire. For example, barristers and judges must adhere to the rules and traditions of the courtroom, and this includes what they wear. If you are currently deciding which direction to take your legal career and are feeling somewhat underdressed, take a look at our online store for a range of legal attire and accessories. Also, if you have an questions about our products, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
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Preparing For Your First Day in Court
Your first day in court is a big day and a significant step in your career, so it’s normal for it to seem daunting. A courtroom is a highly formal environment and should be approached with the right mindset and preparation. Before appearing in court for the first time, it’s vital to appear calm, confident and prepared for the proceedings. When it comes to navigating your first day in court, preparation is critical. There are many aspects to consider leading up to the day, such as rules, formalities, court-appropriate attire, and the stresses that come with legal environments. Once you get the first time out of the way, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect, and the mystery factor is gone, which tends to cause a great deal of anxiety. If you’re worried about your first day in court, you’re most definitely not alone. Fortunately, we’re here to help with a simple yet effective guide for preparing for your first day in court. Shop Legal Wear Now Preparing for your first day in court (be organised!) Our first piece of advice for preparing for your first day in court is precisely that, prepare. You must be as organised as humanly possible, and then some. This means you need to ensure that you have everything you will require while in the courtroom, such as necessary paperwork and case documents, which will need to be organised in a way that’s clear and accessible at a moment’s notice. Also, prepare a ‘care package’ for your day(s) in court, which includes water, light snacks, and anything else that’s appropriate to consume in court. A lack of energy can lead to fatigue, frustration and difficulty concentrating. Not ideal in a courtroom environment. Of course, another key aspect of preparation is a good night’s sleep. Additionally, it’s a good idea to practice with a colleague or friend — going through your lines essentially. Dress appropriately This goes without saying, but you must be dressed appropriately for court. Failing to do so comes across negatively as it looks like you don’t have respect for your court, which will instantly put you at a disadvantage. A successful lawyer is someone who both respects and is respected by their peers. Of course, your attire will differ depending on the nature of the case and the type of court. For example, barristers can wear smart clothing such as a suit, whereas in other scenarios, there’s a strict ruling that barristers wear a traditional robe and wig. It’s your responsibility to do your research beforehand and ensure you don’t arrive underdressed or overdressed for the occasion. A lack of preparation in this regard can convey the message that you are unprofessional. Once you have a clear idea of what you should wear on the day, it’s vital to find a reliable business that specialises in legal attire. Courtroom attire for barristers Courtroom attire for judges Courtroom accessories Dealing with stress and anxiety While experienced legal professionals no doubt have their own methods of dealing with the stresses of a court appearance, you’re a newbie! If you’re feeling anxious or genuinely fearful of your first day in court, you’re not the first, and you definitely won’t be the last lawyer to feel that way. Although this factor will improve with time and experience, you need to be proactive before your first day in court. Everyone is unique; therefore, there’s not a one size fits all approach to stress management. Of course, our first suggestion is a good night’s sleep the night before to make sure you’re fresh and ready for what’s ahead. For some, exercise is a great way to blow off steam and release some endorphins. For others, a relaxed evening with a book or podcast perfectly suits their needs. As an individual, it’s vital to find ways to deal with stress and efficiently recharge your batteries. Not just for work, but your quality of life in general. Formalities Again, something you should already have in the bank, but it’s worth refreshing yourself of the formalities of the courtroom environment. Whether it’s how you interact with the jury, opposing legal teams, witnesses or the judge. Although we listed the judge last, they are by no means the least of your concerns. In fact, your interactions with a judge can play a pivotal role in how you and your team are perceived. Here are a few quick tips for addressing the judge appropriately: You should stand up when the judge enters the courtroom. Do not sit until the judge tells everyone to sit. If you’re unsure, just copy what everyone else does, as there will be more experienced pros in the room. Address the judge in the appropriate manner – ‘your honour.’ Speak clearly and direct. Don’t mumble; if you stumble or stutter, ensure you restart your sentence for clarity. Also, avoid slang or jargon unless it’s relevant to the case. Never, we repeat, never interrupt the judge. Even if you disagree, wait your turn. Don’t get emotional. If you become angry, frustrated, or the case doesn’t go your way — handle it like a professional and conduct yourself appropriately. Our final tip… Enjoy yourself! Yes, it’s a big day and a huge step in your career, but it’s always important to enjoy experiences such as this. This isn’t to say you shouldn’t take it seriously, but it’s ok to be excited and enthusiastic about your first day in a courtroom. Excitement and enthusiasm are fantastic for gaining confidence and taking the pressure off. And when you’re feeling less stress, you’ll likely perform better on the day. Are you preparing for your first day in court and want to ensure you have everything you need? Evess is a leading courtroom attire supplier and has everything needed for your first day in court. Check out our products online or get in touch if you have any questions. Shop Legal Wear Now
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10 Best Accessories For a Beginner in Law
So you’re just getting started in your new career in law after graduation. Having the best accessories can help to make the difference between a rewarding and challenging working day. The life of a lawyer can be highly stressful so get organised so coming equipped with the best courtroom accessories adds a level of style and flair to your new life in the legal profession. So make the most of your new career and set yourself up for fulfilling work life, whether you’re in court or working from home. Shop Law Accessories 1. Leather Briefcase for Your Law Documents A big part of being a lawyer is keeping meticulous notes on all your cases and making sure you are keeping up to date on research for clients and current cases. To this end, it’s important to keep your documents and computer organised while you head to court. One of the most useful court accessories that can be used for this purpose is a high-quality leather briefcase. It will help you to look professional and allow you to approach the working day with a clear mind, always ready to get started on your next case. 2. Computer Lap Desk This is a great gift for those in a remote working situation, unable to get into court or the office. A lap desk brings comfort to your working day, allowing you to work from your sofa. Lap desks are cushioned for extra comfort and they keep your laptop from overheating, protecting your tech as well during the long days of work. 3. Noise Cancelling Headphones This is another great accessory for those working from home instead of on court where there can often be a myriad of distractions. Maybe someone’s playing music from their bedroom. Maybe the TV’s on or your neighbours have decided to mow the lawn. Noise cancelling headphones will help to drown out the background noises, giving you the ability to focus on your cases and deliver the best work possible. 4. A Personalised Gavel Never underestimate the power of inspiration and motivation in the legal profession. In court, the gavel is a symbol of authority and control, used by a judge to represent justice. Having a personalised gavel or even a gavel-shaped desk plate can serve as a reminder that you can only go forward in your new career in law, acting as an aspirational marker to keep you focused and driven. 5. A Diary Planner Another great choice for the life of a busy lawyer, a diary planner will help you to get ahead on all your meetings and keep a neat and organised schedule for you to follow, proving itself to be must have for anyone looking to equip themselves with the best court accessories. This will help to lighten the workload as a beginner in law and make the beginning of your new career seem just a little less daunting. 6. An E-Reader or Tablet Technology is designed to make your life easier and a tablet or e-reader puts all your documents and law books in one easy to find place. Whenever you need to check on anything in court or make quick notes when you don’t have access to a notebook, the tablet puts your career right at your fingertips. It’s a comfortable and modern way to work and can be used at any time, enabling you to relax as you work. 7. Desk Lamp For the all-nighters when your workload is particularly heavy, a desk lamp will always come in handy. Not only will the light help you avoid eye strain, but the dim light will also be more comforting than the sharp glare of overhead light and it is convenient to turn on when you’re too busy to leave your desk. It can also help to add a sense of style and elegance to your desk, giving your workspace some character and individualism that makes it yours. 8. Coffee Machine For the remote workers among us, a coffee machine is a perfect way to keep you going through a heavy workload as well as affording you the opportunity of a five minute break while it brews. Stretch your legs, get some fresh air and enjoy a hot cup of your favourite coffee before heading back to work refreshed and relaxed, and prepared to handle the next load of work. 9. Lawyer Themed Coffee Mug Some accessories for lawyers can add a fun, personal touch. Why not pour the coffee you just brewed into a fun mug that highlights your new career choice, adding a touch of humour and creativity to your day. This can help to achieve a balance in your work life to alleviate some of the stress and seriousness of a long day of meetings and studying. 10. Personalised Pen Set No set of court accessories is complete without a personalised pen set, the type that comes with engravings in neatly tailored wooden boxes. This will add a sense of style to your court life and keep your pens in a safe place so you can easily access them at any time that you need them. Use your new pens to write notes and schedule meetings and when you’re not using them, display the box on your work desk to add a sense of personalisation to your office. These court accessories are a great start for lawyers just starting out in their career, helping your work environment to achieve the perfect balance of formal and personal with plenty of features designed to make your courtroom experience more enjoyable. Beginning barristers and judges can also make the most of these new accessories and create a working atmosphere that guarantees future success. Shop Law Accessories
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Voice Your Opinion In Our Barrister Survey Blog
We at Tailor De Jure Legal Attire have just launched a survey to allow barristers to share their thoughts on their legal wear shopping experiences, with the chance to win one of our vegan barrister wigs! Voice Your Opinion We’ve always been interested in hearing from you and other barristers about what apparel you are having difficulty finding, and now we’ve created a plant-based vegan wig, we want to know what we should focus on next. For instance, we’re already looking into subscription models and clothing that is made in an environmentally friendly manner. To voice your opinion we have a survey available here for you and any others to complete. The winner of the vegan barrister wig will be chosen at random via a lucky draw on Tuesday 31st May and will be contacted via the details left in the survey. Martin Lewis, our Managing Director said: “We’re really excited to be given this opportunity to help in guiding the barrister community move to a more environmentally sustainable legal wear. The vegan barrister wig was our first step towards that and the responses in this survey will guide where we go next.” After completing the survey you can find a wide range of professional gowns, wigs and more at our store. Are you looking to find out more about subjects like what are barristers wigs made from and other related topics? Check out the other posts on our helpful, informative blog. Also, if you’re in the market for a new legal wig or legal gown, you’re in the right place!
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What Are Barristers Wigs Made From? The Rise and Fall of the Traditional Horsehair Wig
Barrister’s wigs have long been a staple of courtrooms since the seventeenth century and it is a tradition that has been carried through to the present day. But, what are Barristers Wigs made from? Over the course of the past few centuries, wigs have been made of a variety of different materials and this guide is going to take you through each type. Shop Barrister Wigs The Original Barrister’s Wigs Back in the seventeenth century, Charles II sat on the throne and started wearing a wig, supposedly to cover his bald head as the rumour mill had it that balding was a sign of syphilis. As a result of the king beginning to wear wigs, the upper classes began wearing wigs as well and as barristers were commonly a part of the middle class, they would wear wigs too, keeping up with the current trends of polite society. The wigs they wore were made of black horsehair but these presented their own challenges. The coarse hairs needed to be maintained with a variety of perfumes, powders and oils which would drip onto clothes and cause damage. Wigs slowly went out of fashion in the late eighteenth, early nineteenth centuries but they experienced a resurgence in popularity when one man found a way to solve the black horsehair problem. The Birth of White Barrister’s Wigs Humphrey Ravenscroft invented a new version of the barrister’s wig, this time made out of white horsehair instead of black, a material that didn’t need the same constant maintenance that made the black horsehair wigs so challenging. To this day, Ravenscroft’s white horsehair wig is the model for all barrister’s wigs, proving its versatility and reliability. White horsehair is renowned for its softness, its similarity to human hair making it a perfect fit. The horsehair for barrister’s wigs is most often taken from horses’ manes as this hair is finer than the thicker hair found on a horse’s tail. Finer hair is most often used for shorter wigs – like barrister’s wigs – while thicker, coarse tail hair is better suited for longer wigs. What Are Barristers Wigs Made From? The Different Types of Hair Used in Wigs Horsehair has been the primary, singular go-to for barrister wigs for centuries now with signs of changing this tradition only becoming apparent in recent years. It begs the question as to why no other hair material has ever been used. Is it really just a matter of symbolising our history? Human Hair Human hair is a natural choice for wigs and with its similarity to horsehair, should be a shoo-in for a material used to make barrister wigs. It has the same kind of fineness and softness. There are two types of human hair wigs: Virgin – completely natural, untreated human hair. Without any chemical manipulation, virgin hair wigs have proven to be stronger and a lot more durable than other types of wigs. Remy – in contrast with virgin hair wigs, Remy wigs have been chemically processed. This provides a lot more style and options with aesthetics but doesn’t have the same kind of natural resilience that the former has. Synthetic Human Hair Where human hair is naturally sourced, synthetic hair is manufactured from fibres that imitate human hair. This makes them a suitable alternative to horsehair as well and if the synthetic wig is well-made, the difference between it and real human hair is nigh on impossible to spot. Other Animal-Sourced Wigs While horsehair is still going strong as an option for wig-making, other animal-sourced materials have fallen out of fashion. Yak hair and buffalo hair are two older types of animal hair used in wigs that didn’t stand the test of time. Buffalo hair wigs can still be found on the market though they are a rare sight. Buffalo hair also shares the same soft characteristics as human hair and horsehair, marking it as a possible alternative to the classic horsehair barrister wig though, of course, the act of acquiring buffalo hair makes other options a lot more suitable to collect. The Rise of Vegan Barrister Wigs The main problem with all the above options for wig hair is that they lack sustainability. Ethical, environmental and animal rights issues have been a big talking point in recent years with more and more people questioning the need for horsehair wigs. It has already been proven there are other options available outside the convention of tradition so why not take it one step further and invest in the rise of a more ethical material? Vegan barrister wigs are often made out of hemp, a class of cannabis whose fibres are popular in the making of ropes alongside other materials. Hemp can also be acquired from other plants like agave. The pioneer of this hemp initiative is Samuel March, an animal rights protection activist striving for a vegan-friendly future in wigs that avoids the exploitation of animals. Hemp comes from the flowers, stems and leaves of a plant, making good use of the material as well as providing great resilience and durability that matches and may even exceed that of horsehair wigs. How Are Barristers Wigs Made? The traditional horsehair barrister wig will take about three weeks to make by hand. The horsehair is washed to make sure it is clean and does not carry any germs or bacteria before being graded according to colour. The older the wig looks, the more likely it is to get you a good reputation as it exudes experience. The creation process handles everything from sourcing the material – whether it be horsehair, human hair, fibres or hemp – giving it whatever treatment and processing it needs before weaving the fibres together to create the wig, curling and coiling where necessary. Horsehair barrister wigs have been a tried and true material for hundreds of years but the times are calling for a change to be made to tradition. Synthetic materials and the hemp alternative are getting more and more popular but traditionalists can rest assured that the quality of your barrister wigs won’t be dropping with the shift in the material. If anything, they will be stronger and better than ever. Are you looking to find out more about subjects like what are barristers wigs made from and other related topics? Check out the other posts on our helpful, informative blog. Also, if you’re in the market for a new legal wig or legal gown, you’re in the right place! Shop Barrister Wigs
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Legal Gown and Legal Wigs Cleaning Guide
Legal gowns and wigs are both iconic and historic pieces of attire, so they’re both worthy of respect and a bit of TLC from time to time. And while there’s a perception that legal wigs that look aged or discoloured represent a long, distinguished career — if you’re spending hundreds of pounds on something, it’s always smart to look after it. However, neither gowns or wigs are everyday items most people will know how to clean, so we thought we’d offer a bit of insight. In this post, we’ll discuss legal gown and legal wigs cleaning in this quick and easy guide! Shop Legal Wear Now Cleaning Legal Gowns The black robes worn for legal proceedings symbolise dignity, honour, wisdom, and justice — values that every lawyer or judge has to keep up with. So, it makes no sense to compromise the respect or authority of legal robes by neglecting to keep them clean and in good condition. Our recommendation is to hand wash our legal robes. To do so, you can remove stains with a small amount of a little bit of bio laundry gel and use a soft nail brush to ease the stain out of the robe, then rinse in a clean sink, washing up bowl, bath, etc. We don’t advise using washing machines for cleaning our robes as it can cause the colour to run and stains to remain. Also, washing machines can cause damage to stitching. Legal Wigs Cleaning Although legal wigs are less common in courtrooms than in the past, there are still many scenarios, especially criminal proceedings, in which barrister’s wear wigs. When legal professionals wear wigs and gowns, it’s not just about tradition. Legal attire allows barristers to present themselves in a smart, authoritative manner while gaining the confidence needed to address the court and deliver statements effectively. Essentially, when barristers put on their legal attire, it allows them to get into character and demand a certain level of respect from everyone in the courtroom. However, to benefit from the above, your attire needs to be clean and presentable, and that includes the condition and hygiene of your legal wig. But, what is the process for legal wigs cleaning? Professional Court Wig Cleaning While it is most definitely a niche cleaning service, there are many companies that offer professional cleaning for legal wigs. This service consists of gentle yet thorough cleaning of the horsehair fibres to ensure any trace of dust, dirt, sweat and hair oils are removed. As we mentioned earlier, the aged colouration of legal wigs is something that legal professionals like, which is why professional cleaners will use a process that doesn’t affect the wig’s colour. If necessary, they’ll also trim loose hairs and reshape your wig to return it to perfect condition. Regarding the frequency of legal wigs cleaning, there’s some debate around this. Of course, if your wig has received damage, stains, etc., you’ll want to get it cleaned as soon as possible. However, for routine cleaning, some sources claim it should be cleaned once every 25-30 years. In contrast, others state that once a year is sufficient. It really does come down to preference. If you’re looking to extend the life of your legal wig, we would suggest getting it professionally cleaned every 1-3 years. Cleaning Court Wigs at Home Professional cleaning is hugely beneficial for tackling more serious concerns such as stains or damage, but there are a few day-to-day things you can do to ensure your wig is fresh. Sweat and oil from your scalp can both prove to be troublesome over time, causing discolouration and bad smells. A simple way to tackle this issue is to allow your legal wig to breathe rather than putting it in a case or tucked away in a cupboard. Doing so allows any sweat or other moisture to dry, preventing a musty scent. For minor stains, it’s often possible to get rid of them yourself by gently cleaning with a cloth and warm water. However, be careful not to scrub too hard and loosen/damage hairs. Another great way to maintain your wig and ensure longevity is to store it on a wig stand when it’s not in use, and the rounded top on the wig stand helps to maintain the curved shape. The Tailor De Jure barrister wig stand is the ideal shape and size for displaying your wig, allowing it to get some fresh air to ensure it smells fresh and odour-free. Are you looking to find out more about legal attire maintenance and related topics? Check out the other posts on our helpful, informative blog. Also, if you’re in the market for a new legal wig or legal gown, you’re in the right place! Shop Legal Wear Now
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Same Traditions, New Look: The Vegan Barrister Wig
With a job that is placed within some of the most important traditions of our present society, a barristers attire hasn’t changed much since the dawning of the role. Yet, with a more inclusive and sustainable outlook in recent times, tradition has had to alter. We present to you the vegan barrister wig. A traditional look, only different. The focus of creating such an item has been steadily building in our minds. The traditional horsehair finish of most wigs still stands firm with many a law battling barrister. Yet, with a generation built on creating a more sustainable lifestyle, it would only be a matter of time till an alternative was made. The continuing moral high ground of barristers has meant that they are often fighting the corner of the innocent and fighting for a better world and future. Many people are now switching to a vegan diet, meaning that a requirement to modernise the traditional is now an essential aspect of the business of law. The number of vegans among those who have been called to the bar is increasing, along with the general population, and before now, there was little to no option for a vegan alternative. Statistics drawn from a few sources state that the number of vegans that currently reside in the U.K is around 600000. This has risen from 150000 back in 2006 and looks to be continuing as people make lifestyle changes. In surveys, most of those who have chosen a vegan diet put it down to ethical motivations. Barristers’ lives are that moral and ethical standing, so it makes sense that there is an increase in vegans among them. Who was the first person to create a vegan courtroom wig? A new barrister called Samuel March was the brainchild of this exciting new wig. His original ideas were a hemp fibre creation. ‘If a person can take from and sell parts of an animal, even if that immediately does not harm an animal, then it incentivises an industry based around commodifying and selling their bodies.’ His initial idea has paved the way for a break in the tradition of horsehair wigs and created a sustainable alternative for those who have demanded an animal-free option. What is the vegan barrister wig made of? The vegan wigs are available in both synthetic and plant-based fibres. The plant that we use to create the hair fibres is from the Agave plant. The sisal fibre has to go through a vigorous process before it can be used. The steps include cultivation, harvesting leaves, fibre extraction, fibre hackling and weaving. Almost every part of the plant is used, not just the threads required for textiles. So not only are you getting a natural material to produce the wigs but the waste material is used for composting, fertilisation and is a natural fungicide. How does the manufacture differ from a regular horsehair wig? Apart from how the plant fibres are harvested, the manufacture of the wigs doesn’t differ much from your generic horsehair wig. The horsehair is cut, cleaned and gets all potential bacteria removed before it can be used. This would be similar to the plant fibres used to create the vegan alternative. Does it look different to a regular wig? The sisal fibre has a naturally blonde look to it and thus matches some of the horsehair wigs very well. The hair looks natural and is not a distinct change from the traditional wigs, meaning you can continue to stride confidently into the courtroom without any difference except that you are wearing a sustainable alternative made in an eco-conscious way. The off white and blonde is normal for a barristers wig. This is because a bright white wig would indicate that the barrister is new and doesn’t have the experience of that of someone who may wear a more aged wig. The look was specifically created to resemble a worn and well-matured wig that exudes knowledge. How do you wash a vegan barrister wig? The short answer is exactly the same as you would a horsehair wig. As we mentioned previously, barristers generally want a matured look for their wig and steer clear from the new barrister look as much as possible. That being said, wigs can get smelly after a while, so we recommend you give them the occasional TLC. You can read more about cleaning your wig in our article here. In conclusion We are over the moon to now offer our vegan wig to the new and more experienced barristers. It is built to last even the busiest of us and is easy to keep clean and fresh. The sturdiness of it will last you an entire career and ensure that you enter the courtroom with confidence and conscience. We are currently stocking the blonde for countries other than the UK & Australia who use the Grey/White colour. The blonde can still be used for those barristers in the UK/Australia that want to purchase a vegan wig now. The grey/white is in development, and we hope that it should be added to the collection before the summer of 2022. Although we do take a sustainable stance on all of our products and productions, sometimes a new technology makes a massive difference to a traditional way of life. We feel that not only will our vegan barrister wig change the way that we wear wigs in the courtroom, but it will also mean a more inclusive option, opening doors for those legal vegans who always felt wrong wearing a horsehair wig.
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