A change in the dress code for advocates in Maharashtra and Goa has been introduced by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa (BCMG), considering the increasingly intense summer heat. The exemption from wearing black coats, which was earlier applicable only during May and June, has now been extended to cover the period from March 1 to June 30. The decision has been conveyed through a circular issued on February 27, in which it was stated that the definition of the summer period for dress regulations has been revised. Advocates practicing within the jurisdiction of the BCMG have been permitted to refrain from wearing black coats or jackets during this time to ensure greater comfort in extreme weather conditions.
The decision has been taken in accordance with the rules prescribed under Section 49(1)(gg) of the Advocates Act, 1961, which governs the dress code for practicing lawyers. While the exemption applies to black coats and jackets during the designated summer period, adherence to the rest of the prescribed dress code continues to be mandatory. Under these regulations, male advocates are required to wear a black buttoned-up coat, chapkan, achkan, black sherwani, and white bands with an advocate’s gown. Alternatively, they may opt for a black open-breast coat with a white stiff or soft collar, along with white bands and an advocate’s gown. The attire must be completed with long trousers or a dhoti.
For female advocates, the dress code mandates the wearing of a black full- or half-sleeve jacket or blouse with a white stiff or soft collar, white bands, and an advocate’s gown. These garments are to be paired with sarees, long skirts, or flared bottoms. Despite the relaxation in wearing black coats during the summer months, professional dress code norms remain in place, ensuring that the decorum of the legal profession is maintained.
The exemption has been granted in light of the discomfort caused by wearing black coats in high temperatures, particularly as summers have been growing harsher in recent years. By extending the exemption to include March and April, in addition to May and June, the BCMG has acknowledged the challenges faced by legal professionals and has taken steps to ease their working conditions while maintaining professional standards.
As per the revised regulations, the months of "summer" for dress rules shall now be recognized as March, April, May, and June. Consequently, advocates will not be required to wear black coats or jackets throughout this four-month period, ensuring some relief from the intense heat.
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