SCBA Survey Exposes Gender Bias in Indian Legal Profession: Global Lessons for Equality in Law
Women lawyers cite discouragement, bias, and lack of leadership opportunities in India
Global comparisons show progress abroad but persistent challenges across legal systems
By Our Legal Reporter
New Delhi: December 04, 2025:
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has released a landmark survey highlighting the struggles faced by women lawyers in India. Conducted among 301 women advocates in Delhi-NCR, the survey found that 38.5% described the profession as discouraging, while 33.1% reported direct experiences of gender bias.
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The findings shed light on systemic barriers that prevent women from thriving in the legal profession, including work-life balance issues, lack of mentorship, pay disparity, and limited access to leadership roles.
Key Issues Identified in India
1. Gender Bias and Discrimination
- 33.1% of respondents reported facing gender bias in courtrooms and law offices.
- Women often face scepticism about their competence compared to male counterparts.
2. Work-Life Balance
- 38.2% said marriage and motherhood made it harder to continue practice.
- Many women struggle to balance demanding litigation schedules with family responsibilities.
3. Leadership Opportunities
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- 57.8% of respondents felt women lack equal access to leadership positions in bar associations.
- Senior roles in law firms and bar councils remain male-dominated.
4. Pay Parity and Career Growth
- Women lawyers often earn less than men for similar work.
- Limited mentorship opportunities hinder career progression.
5. Harassment and Safety
- 6.2% reported sexual harassment at the workplace.
- Fear of retaliation discourages many from reporting incidents.
Global Comparison
United States
- Women make up 38% of lawyers but only 23% of equity partners in law firms.
- The American Bar Association (ABA) has introduced diversity initiatives, but pay gaps persist.
United Kingdom
- Women represent 52% of solicitors but only 33% of partners.
- The Law Society of England and Wales has launched mentoring and flexible work programs.
Australia
- Women account for over 50% of law graduates, yet leadership roles remain male-heavy.
- Stronger workplace policies have reduced harassment cases, but retention is still a challenge.
Global Trends
- Across jurisdictions, women lawyers face structural barriers: unequal pay, limited leadership, and work-life balance struggles.
- Countries with stronger institutional policies (UK, US) show gradual progress, while India lags in formal reforms.
Expert Opinions
- Legal scholars argue that India needs stronger institutional frameworks to support women lawyers.
- Human rights activists emphasize that gender equality in law is essential for justice delivery.
- Senior advocates call for mentorship programs and flexible work policies to retain women in litigation.
Implications for India
The SCBA survey highlights urgent reforms needed in India’s legal profession:
- Institutional policies to prevent harassment and discrimination.
- Mentorship programs to support young women lawyers.
- Flexible work arrangements to balance family and career.
- Equal pay initiatives to close the gender gap.
- Leadership quotas to ensure representation in bar councils and law firms.
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Conclusion
The SCBA survey is a wake-up call for India’s legal system. With 38.5% of women lawyers discouraged and 33.1% facing bias, urgent reforms are needed to make the profession inclusive. Global comparisons show that while countries like the US and UK have made progress, challenges remain worldwide.
For India, the path forward lies in stronger institutional support, gender-sensitive policies, and cultural change within the profession. Only then can the legal system truly reflect the principles of equality and justice it seeks to uphold.
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