WilmerHale’s Post

The International Day of Women Judges is celebrated on 10 March every year to recognise the contributions of women judges worldwide and is part of global effort to ensuring gender equality and to address gender-related judicial integrity issues. Join Empowering Women for Excellence Initiative (EWEI) in observing the 2024 International Day of Women Judges under the campaign theme "Women in Justice, women for justice." The theme aims to advocate for the complete and equitable involvement of women across all tiers of the judiciary. Despite the increased presence of women in public spheres, their representation in decision-making roles remains disproportionately low. This imbalance is particularly evident within the judiciary, where women, especially in senior leadership positions, are underrepresented. Yet, the significance of women's inclusion in the judiciary cannot be overstated. The presence of women judges is fundamental in ensuring that courts accurately reflect the demographics of their communities, address their needs, and deliver impartial rulings. By serving on the bench, women judges bolster the credibility of judicial institutions, signaling their openness and accessibility to those seeking justice. Moreover, the inclusion of women in the judiciary holds multifaceted importance. Beyond shaping legal systems that consider the entirety of society, it serves as an inspiration for future generations of female jurists, motivating them to pursue their aspirations. Women within the criminal justice system wield the potential to instigate transformative change and foster greater accountability. Their diverse perspectives and experiences enrich judicial processes, while women in leadership roles can disrupt networks of corruption and collusion, thereby advancing integrity within the system. Research indicates that increased representation of women in law enforcement and judicial bodies correlates with more effective, victim-centric responses to crime. By investing in the advancement of women and nurturing female justice leaders, we pave the way for a more equitable dispensation of justice, benefiting society as a whole. It is imperative to recognise that sustainable development, peace, and democracy hinge upon the active and equal participation of women alongside men in decision-making spheres. Let us collectively strive towards this goal, fostering an environment where justice is impartially served and where all individuals, irrespective of gender, are accorded fairness and equality before the law. UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women African Women's Development Fund (AWDF) Nigerian Bar Association Association for Women's Rights in Development (AWID)                              

“The natural and proper timidity and delicacy which belongs to the female sex evidently unfits it for many of the occupations of civil life” - Bradwell v Illinois In the Bradwell v Illinois United States Supreme Court case, Myra Bradwell attempted to secure a law license in Illinois as a U.S. citizen and was denied by the state Supreme Court. The court ruled that the Fourteenth Amendment doesn't universally ensure the right to practice law, asserting that such rights aren't inherently linked to citizenship. In a separate opinion, a justice argued for excluding women from the legal profession, citing perceived gender roles dictated by the "law of the Creator." This decision was overturned by the United States Supreme Court in 1971, and since then, the world as well as the legal profession has come a long way in ensuring the inclusion of women. In various spheres, we see women excelling and constantly breaking barriers and stereotypes. Whether it be in executive positions at top companies, being a stellar entrepreneur or running a family , women constantly inspire girls all over the world that they can be anything they want to be. In the spirit of inspiring inclusivity, the female partners of LAWSAN, Babcock University Chapter decided to celebrate our women at the School of Law and Security Studies, Babcock University who have made significant impact on the worldview of the female partners like the Executive President of LAWSAN, Babcock University Chapter Chioma Alumonah. Happy International Women's Day! Today, let's celebrate the incredible achievements, strength, and resilience of women around the world. May we continue to work towards a more inclusive and equal future for all. #IWD2024 #breakthebias

In its 5th edition, the WLW | Women in a Legal World Awards celebrated the outstanding achievements of women and organizations in the legal sector. Margarita Mariscal, Carmen Calvo, Bisila Bokoko, the Ampara Association, and the Office of the Ombudsman were among the recipients of the highest honors. The Women in a Legal World Awards, association chaired by Marlen Estévez Sanz (pictured), aim to recognize the achievements of women and organizations that have contributed to a more just and equitable society. In a world where polarization and misinformation prevail, these awards serve as a beacon of hope, highlighting the importance of leadership, integrity, and social responsibility in the legal profession and beyond. Read the full article >> https://lnkd.in/dy9SSax9 #IberianLawyer #awards

"Addressing gender disparity in Pakistan's justice system requires a multifaceted approach.” Accountability Lab Pakistan's recently published thought piece delves into the importance of women-centric initiatives, institutional reforms, and robust capacity-building efforts. By engaging communities and challenging entrenched patriarchal norms, we aim to foster a more equitable and just society. Please scroll below for the link to the complete blog. Link: https://lnkd.in/dBZW-8sj #GenderParity #JusticeReform #Empowerment

Yoshie Midorikawa is listed on Maxwell Chambers’ MAXWELL CONNECTher as one of the women arbitrators in the Asia Pacific region.  She is listed as one of the 8 women arbitrators based in Japan.    Details: https://lnkd.in/ghDa4wsN    #MiuraandPartners #MP #arbitration #arbitrator #MaxwellChambers #MAXWELLCONNECTher #DiversityInArbitration #WomenInArbitration #AsiaPacificArbitration 

My special report in this weeks edition of The News International reflects on the inclusion of women in courts in Pakistan. This piece was triggered by my having spent the entire day on Women’s Day this past friday, reflecting on my journey as a female litigator. My constant thoughts were how if I, as one of the more privileged women, could face issues with inclusion then how the journeys of other women would also have been difficult. A woman’s quest for inclusion in courts, be it as a litigator or as a judicial officer, begins in Pakistan with her pursuit of a law degree, followed by the acquirement of lower court license, a high court license and then a supreme court license. Once a lower court license is acquired through an exam, the challenge persists for subsequent licenses that are required for appearance in superior courts. The challenges faced not only then preclude a woman from a career in litigation but also for any possibility of appointment as a judge in the superior judiciary. By working her fingers to the bone, she does acquire a High Court license but then an even steeper uphill battle remains gaping at her; the supreme court license. Now begins her endless walk on a slippery slope to get enough cases decided before the Higher Courts to even be considered for a Supreme Court license. Yes, the road to acquiring these licenses remains the same for male litigators but not in any way does it carry with it the same obstacle course as that for women. There are social, cultural, religious constraints which the author would not delve into since they are no secret to the sound ear, but it is the inherent lack of trust in female litigator’s capabilities, it is the constant fight in proving herself, the consistent internal battle of toughening up, roughening up. The dilemmas of not having access to enough resources to make the road smoother for her growth. The resources available would only be enough for her to survive, not to thrive. Women in Law Initiative - Pakistan Women Leaders of Pakistan Women Empowerment Pakistan #womensday2024 #womenempowerment #womeninlaw #judiciary #womenchangemakers #internationaldayforwomenjudges

Happy International Women's Day from everyone at Gattas Denfield to the incredible women shaping the legal landscape! ⚖ Today, we’re celebrating the remarkable achievements of women in law, from pioneering legal minds to inspiring advocates fighting for justice. Here’s to our own team of outstanding female solicitors, including our co-founder Gillian who has been championing equality and fighting tirelessly for the rights of others since 1974! The legal landscape has changed a lot since then with the number of female lawyers in the UK steadily increasing. In 2023 53% of lawyers in the UK were women, while 45% were men. However, sadly the playing field is still not equal with women hugely underrepresented in senior positions. This must change. Let's continue to empower and support women in law, creating a future where their voices are heard and their contributions are valued. #InternationalWomensDay #WomenInLaw #Equality #Gattasdenfield #internationalwomensday2024 #womeninbusiness

Did you know? In 1923, the Women's Legal Practitioners Act was passed, allowing women to become lawyers in South Africa. This landmark legislation opened doors for women in the legal field, setting the stage for future generations. Celebrating the Pioneers: Let's honour the courageous women who fought for this change and became the first female legal practitioners. Their perseverance laid the foundation for today's successful women lawyers and judges.  Join Us in Celebrating: This Women's Month, let's recognise the pioneers who paved the way and continue striving for equality in the legal profession. #WomensMonth #LegalPioneers #Equality #HerStory #WomenInLaw

In this article in Counsel Magazine Jessica Powers’ lessons learnt driving diversity and inclusion in barrister recruitment and retention Some interesting thoughs regarding retention of women at the Bar. Read the article > https://lnkd.in/eh4gYwgV

Today and every day, we honor the strength, resilience, and achievements of women in law and beyond. Happy International Women's Day from JCA Law, where we champion equality, diversity, and inclusion. Here's to the remarkable women shaping the legal profession and making history! #InternationalWomensDay #WomenInLaw