Powdered Wigs and Face Masks in U.K. Courts as Trials Resume

  • SFO Unaoil trial resumes after virus halted jury cases
  • Old Bailey case provides model for trials after virus peak
Lock
This article is for subscribers only.

The courtrooms of London’s Old Bailey still acknowledge the traditions of its near 350-year history, with judges and attorneys wearing robes and powdered horse-hair wigs.

This week -- as criminal trials reopened after a two-month hiatus -- face masks, gloves, and social distancing have joined the requirements of a well-dressed officer of the court in the time of coronavirus.