WOMEN IN THE PROFESSION

The amount of women in the profession in on the increase.  Each year, more women qualify as solicitors, pass their LPC or become trainees.  It may be that in your LPC class there was a very large proportion of women.  This appears to be becoming the norm.

However, it seems that this increase is not being echoed at the other end of the legal profession.  The amount of women partners, judges or senior management is not changing at the same pace. 

There are many factors involved with this, and the TSG is committed in promoting equal opportunities and flexible working (where necessary) for female students and trainees.  The culture in the profession may change organically, but this cannot be left to chance.  By adopting family friendly policies and eradicating sexual bullying, the profession can ensure that the large number of talented female lawyers that enter it are able to see their careers through to seniority.

Please see the TSG response to the Judical Appointment Commission's paper on WOMEN IN THE JUDICIARY.

If you have been affected by sexual discrimination at work, please feel free to call the confidential Helpine on 08000 856 131.

THE ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN SOLICITORS

Do not forget that there is a recognised group of the Law Society that deals directly with women solicitors.  You can get involved with the AWS by contacting them via their webiste - www.womensolicitors.org.uk.  

The AWS now has almost 11,000 members and 10 regional groups. It exists to:

• Articulate and represent the views of women solicitors
• Promote women’s interests in the profession
• Campaign on issues important to women solicitors
• Actively oppose discrimination against women solicitors

Please visit the website, and join today if you would like to get involved.