Posted Monday 9th March 2020
Following International Women’s Day, it is important to remember and appreciate The Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act 1919 which marked its 100 year anniversary on 23 December 2019.
The last few decades have shown a number of major changes in the legal profession, particularly relating to the dramatic increase in the number of female solicitors and barristers. While the rise in numbers relates more to females at a junior level, as more and more firms are implementing a flexible working policy and introducing shared parental leave, the number of senior females in law firms has also marginally increased. Unfortunately, as women tend to move up the legal rank from junior to senior to partner, there is still a drop in the number of women who progress to becoming partners at law firms.
Women also still remain underrepresented at the Bar Council, particularly in the most senior roles such as Queen’s Counsel, however the steady growth in the number of females in the legal profession is still on the rise compared to many decades ago. A prime example is Lady Hale, who became the first female President of the Supreme Court in 2017 breaking down the stereotypical and misogynistic barriers in the judiciary – all hale Lady Hale!
Although there is still a lot more to be done to support women in leadership roles across the sector, it is important to continue to recognise that an equal and diverse working environment can help shape a fairer society.
Let’s all be #EachforEqual.
This article is for reference purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Specific legal advice about your specific circumstances should always be sought separately before taking or deciding not to take any action.
