Rule 22 Judicial robes.

Judges in Alabama are expected to wear a black robe when they are hearing formal court cases. This applies to justices and judges across the state court system.

Probate judges and municipal judges are treated a bit differently. They are not required to wear a robe, but they are encouraged to do so when handling formal court proceedings.

The idea behind this rule is to keep court proceedings looking professional and consistent. A judicial robe helps signal that the person on the bench is acting in an official capacity, no matter which type of court is involved.