Former Head of Chambers' Family Group and Trinity Door Tenant, Nicholas Stonor K.C. has followed a Bar tradition going back hundreds of years by giving a 'red bag' to Tory Putnam.
Personalised with the barrister's monogrammed initials, the red cloth bags are used by barristers to carry wigs, robes, books, and case papers. They come in several colours, each with its own meaning - junior counsel carry dark blue bags, King’s Counsel use red bags, and members of the Judiciary are distinguished by dark green bags.
There is a long-established custom that red bags can only be bought by silks, however, a K.C. may then present one to a junior barrister they have worked alongside, usually in recognition of an exceptional contribution to a successful case. Another tradition is that the red bag is typically presented by the silk with a personal note of thanks, for which there is a piece of parchment inside.
Commenting on presenting the red bag, Nicholas Stonor K.C. said:
“I have been lucky enough to lead Tory on two public law children cases this year. They were very different cases involving very different challenges. In both cases, I was hugely impressed by Tory’s sound judgment, hard work, compassion and unfailing good humour. She is eminently deserving of a red bag and I look forward to seeing her career go from strength to strength”.
Accepting the red bag, Tory said:
“I am exceptionally grateful to all involved in the cases that have led to this. I am also very appreciative for all the support and encouragement provided by Nick Stonor K.C. and all those involved, particularly the instructing solicitors, the clerks and wider team.”