This International Women’s Day (8th March 2025), the Law Society of England and Wales encourages the profession to continue supporting women’s progress to senior levels. In 2023, more new female solicitors (832) attained partner equivalent positions compared to their male counterparts (522).
Despite advancements, female solicitors still represent only 34% of partners or partner equivalents, even though they make up 51% of solicitors in private practice.
Currently, female solicitors in private practice have a 13% chance of reaching partner equivalent levels, while male solicitors have more than double the opportunity with a 28% chance. Law Society president Richard Atkinson said:
“This International Women’s Day is a poignant reminder of how far we’ve come and the work that still needs to be done.
We urge our members to sign up to our Women in Law Pledge**, which asks law firms to commit to senior level accountability for progressing gender equality. This includes setting targets for women at senior levels and creating a culture that’s inclusive and free from bias.
Wherever you are on your equality, diversity and inclusion path, the Women in Law Pledge enhances the collective efforts to promote gender equality.
We should all take action to make the change we want to see in our profession.”
He emphasised to become allies for gender equality by signing the Women in Law Pledge and make a difference.
