Tasmanian magistrates will again be cloaked in judicial robes across all Magistrates Court divisions from next week.
Chief Magistrate Catherine Geason said the move to traditional legal attire follows discussions about the “appropriateness of robes in a modern judicial setting” and the role of magistrates in the Tasmanian justice system.
“As the jurisdiction of the Court continues to expand, the magistrates consider the adoption of robes will promote respect for the Court, as well as emphasise the solemnity and formality inherent in its proceedings,” she said.
“In addition, the wearing of robes signifies the impartiality of magistrates and that the magistrates, as a collection of judicial officers, are responsible for interpreting and applying the law.”
While magistrates will wear black robes, legal practitioners will not be required to follow suit and are expected to maintain professional attire as usual.
