Queen's counsel
In 1604, the second year of his reign, His Royal Highness King James I introduced a new rank to the Bar. Called King’s Counsel, it became a title that members of the Bar coveted. To qualify was not easy. A barrister had to be both one of the leaders of the Bar, and favoured by the king and his court.
Such an illustrious title deserved a matching costume. King’s Counsel barristers adopted a splendid uniform of black silk robes in Tudor style, with a cape collar and hanging panel sleeves decorated with black silk tufts and black lace. By the early 18th century, this had become a ceremonial robe which is still worn today.
Today’s Queen’s Counsel still wears the Tudor style black silk robe, worn over a court coat, waistcoat, breeches and a lace stock. The title also retains its prestige, awarded to barristers who are leaders in their profession.
