procedural guides

Working Towards Equality in the Courts

I am woman, hear me roar. From the #metoo movement to equal pay for women in Iceland, women’s rights and representation continue to flourish – and courtrooms are no exception. In response to the results of a study citing the extreme disparity and underrepresentation of women attorneys in both Alternate Dispute Resolution and courtrooms, the American Bar Association House of Delegates Monday unanimously approved a resolution to address this disparity. The measure includes specific steps that can be implemented by law firms, ADR providers, clients, and the judiciary.

Kudos to NYSBA President Sharon Stern Gertsman who presented the ABA with the report: If Not Now, When? Achieving Equality for Women Attorneys in the Courtroom and in ADR.

One significant quote from the report is: “There is no shortage of literature discussing the gender gap in the courtroom, which sadly continues to persist at all levels —from law firm associates, to equity partnerships at law firms, to lead counsel at trial.”

To read more, visit American Bar Association Adopts State Bar Report on Gender Disparity in the Courtroom.