Delhi Bar Association Relaxes Dress Code: Black Coats Not Mandatory for Lawyers in Summer 2025

In a significant relief to legal professionals, the Delhi Bar Association (DBA) has officially announced that lawyers will no longer be required to wear black coats during the summer season. This decision, made in 2025, responds to the severe heatwave conditions prevailing in Delhi and its surrounding regions.

The order, effective immediately, allows advocates to appear in court wearing white shirts, white collars, and black trousers, without the requirement of a black coat. The association stated that the move was made with the health and comfort of advocates in mind, especially junior lawyers who often struggle with the formal dress code in extreme temperatures. The circular further emphasized that the relaxation applies to both male and female advocates, maintaining decorum while ensuring flexibility.

The DBA’s decision aligns with previous directives issued by the Bar Council of India, which has permitted relaxation in court dress codes during peak summer months in consultation with High Courts and State Bar Councils. Legal practitioners have widely welcomed the move, calling it a practical and necessary step amidst rising climate concerns.

This update is expected to influence other bar associations across India to consider similar relief measures, especially in states facing record-breaking temperatures. By balancing tradition with the changing environmental realities, the DBA sets a progressive precedent for legal institutions nationwide.