Marking a milestone, over 350 women King’s Counsel (KCs) and judges assembled to commemorate the 75th anniversary of women’s appointments as King’s Counsel in England and Wales. This momentous gathering highlighted the journey of women in the legal field and their ongoing contributions.
- Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in top legal positions; however, significant strides have been made since the first women took silk in 1949 under King George VI.
- The Judicial Diversity Forum emphasises the importance of fostering an inclusive environment for current and prospective judges, recognising the essential pipeline of talent.
- Speakers at the event, including Lady Chief Justice Baroness Carr and Mrs Justice McGowan, celebrated past achievements and underscored the need for continued progress towards gender equality.
- The event was attended by trailblazers like Hilary Heilbron KC, reflecting on her mother’s legacy and the slow but meaningful advancements in women’s representation in the law.
Over 350 women who have achieved the rank of King’s Counsel (KC) or have served as judges gathered in the Great Hall of the Royal Courts of Justice to mark the 75th anniversary of women’s appointments as KCs in England and Wales. Organised by prominent figures like Mrs Justice McGowan, Mrs Justice Theis, and Mrs Justice Morgan, this event highlighted the progress and achievements of women in the legal profession.
Lady Chief Justice Baroness Carr addressed the attendees, acknowledging that while women are generally well represented in the legal professions, their presence in top positions remains limited. She stated, “Women are generally well represented in the legal professions although we still see fewer women in the top positions. Progress has been made but the path is much harder for some and we must…celebrate success.” Her remarks underscored the collective achievements and the ongoing journey towards broader representation and leadership.
The significance of diversity and inclusion within the judicial system was a focal point. The Judicial Diversity Forum, comprising various leaders such as the Lord Chancellor and members of legal bodies, is committed to ensuring an inclusive environment within the judiciary. This forum stresses the importance of a diverse pipeline of talent, crucial to advancing an equitable legal landscape.
Mrs Justice McGowan expressed her delight in marking the progress made towards gender parity in the legal field, while also acknowledging the work yet to be done. She remarked on the progress since 1949 when Helena Normanton and Rose Heilbron were the first women to take silk, recognising the historical significance and ongoing impact of this initial breakthrough.
Noteworthy attendees included Hilary Heilbron KC, daughter of one of the first female silks, Dame Rose Heilbron. She shared reflections on her mother’s legacy, acknowledging the advancements made and the continued need for progress. Other remarkable figures such as June Venters KC, the first woman solicitor QC, and Kim Hollis KC, the first Asian woman to take silk, were highlighted as examples of breaking new ground and setting precedents for future generations.
Clea Topolski KC, among the most recently appointed women silks, expressed her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. She stated, “True equity in law can only be achieved when we see genuine diversity reflected in the highest held positions. I am committed to supporting this need for change in any way I can.” Her words echoed a shared sentiment of forward-thinking and leadership in driving change.
This celebration of 75 years since women first became King’s Counsel serves as a powerful reminder of both past achievements and the imperative for continued progress towards equality in the legal profession.
