The legal profession has long been recognized for its rigorous demands and high standards. However, for women barristers, the path to success often involves navigating additional challenges, from balancing career ambitions with personal responsibilities to overcoming systemic barriers within the profession.
In particular, research from Bar Council and BSB reports summarise the following issues as particularly affecting women’s entry, retention, and progression at the Bar:
| Key Issue | Impact |
| Gender Pay Gap | Unequal earnings; limits long-term career sustainability |
| Harassment and Discrimination | Uncomfortable and unsafe environments, underreporting, career damage |
| Underrepresentation in Senior Roles | Fewer role models, slow pace of change |
| Work-Life Balance | Burnout, career breaks, or leaving the Bar altogether |
| Lack of Mentorship | Slower career development, less championing or access to high-profile cases |
| Cultural Barriers | Feeling excluded, less access to opportunities |
The pay gap is particularly troublesome when analysing recent figures. The Bar Council’s latest report, Gross Earnings by Sex and Practice Area at the Self-Employed Bar 2024, analysed self-reported 2023 earnings and revealed several concerning findings:
- Overall Disparity: Women at the self-employed Bar earned less than men across the board. For example, junior women barristers earned on average only around 77% of what junior men earned, and women KCs (silks) earned about 67% of the median gross earnings of male silks.
- There were earnings gaps in every area of practice. The widest gaps were in commercial and Chancery practice, where women at 11-15 years PQE were earning 57% of their male colleagues’ median fee income.
- During the previous 4 years (2020-2023), median earnings at the Bar had increased for men and women. However, women’s earnings increased by less than men’s. This means the gap is getting wider.
Further, this gap commences right at the start of a woman barrister’s career, as seen in recent Bar Council report: New practitioner earnings differentials at the self-employed Bar April 2024. Research states that the overall median earnings gap in the 0-3 years PQE band was 11.3 per cent in 2020, 8.6 per cent in 2021, and 13.4 per cent in 2022, so consistently between 9 and 13 per cent rounded.
These figures are particularly troublesome as often these figures relate to younger practitioners without caring responsibilities and thus cannot be as readily explained by the disruption of career breaks.
A further hot, topic issue women are disproportionately facing at the Bar is Bullying, Harassment & Discrimination. In December 2023 the Bar Council published research revealing increasing numbers of barristers were experiencing or witnessing inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour at the Bar. The report found:
- 44% of respondents said they had experienced or observed bullying, harassment or discrimination while working either in person or online over the last two years.
- This is an increase from 38% in 2021 and 31% in 2017.
- Respondents who had witnessed or observed these behaviours were more likely to be female, junior, and/or from ethnic minority backgrounds. Those complained about were more likely to be in a senior position, such as judges and senior barristers.
Last year in response to research on the extent of bullying, harassment and sexual harassment at the Bar, the Bar Council has commissioned an independent review chaired by the Rt Hon Harriet Harman KC. The report is due to be published in late 2025.
So, what can be done about these issues?
The first step in addressing system issues is identifying them and their impact. The Her Bar Inaugural Conference 2025, scheduled for Saturday, 17 May 2025, at The View in The Royal College of Surgeons of England in London, presents a unique opportunity to address these issues head-on. This full-day event is tailored specifically for women in law, offering a platform for empowerment, professional development, and meaningful connections.
The conference is meticulously designed to cater to every stage of a barrister’s career—whether you’re just starting out, building your practice, or aiming for higher judicial roles. The day promises a blend of inspirational talks, practical workshops, and networking opportunities, all set in the prestigious surroundings of The View.
Keynote Address by Lady Justice Whipple
The event will commence with a keynote address from Lady Justice Whipple, Court of Appeal judge and a distinguished figure in the judiciary. Her insights will set the tone for the day, providing attendees with invaluable perspectives on the evolving landscape of the legal profession and the pivotal role women play within it.
Tailored Workshops for Professional Growth
The conference agenda includes a series of workshops designed to address the specific needs and aspirations of women barristers. Topics include:
- Pupillage Workshop: Guidance on securing and excelling in pupillage, the crucial first step in a barrister’s career.
- Building Your Brand as a Barrister: Strategies for establishing a strong professional identity and reputation.
- Successful Career Breaks: Insights into navigating career pauses and returning to practice with confidence.
- Becoming a Judge: Pathways and considerations for those aspiring to judicial roles.
- Becoming a KC: Understanding the process and significance of attaining King’s Counsel status.
- Gender Pay Gap – The Bar Edition: An examination of pay disparities and discussing strategies for achieving equity.
- Tackling Bullying and Harassment at the Bar: Practical advice on addressing and preventing misconduct within the profession.
Inclusive and Supportive Environment
The Her Bar Inaugural Conference 2025 is more than just an event; it’s a movement towards a more inclusive and supportive legal community. By focusing on the unique challenges faced by women barristers, the conference aims to create a space where issues can be discussed openly, and solutions can be developed collaboratively.
Beyond the structured sessions, the conference offers ample opportunities for networking. Attendees will have the chance to connect with peers, mentors, and leaders in the field, facilitating the exchange of ideas and experiences. These interactions can lead to collaborative opportunities, mentorship relationships, and a stronger sense of community within the profession.
Practical Details
- Date and Time: Saturday, 17 May 2025, from 10:00 to 16:30 BST.
- Location: The View, The Royal College of Surgeons of England, 38-43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PE, United Kingdom.
- Catering: The day includes a fully catered lunch by Searcy’s.
- Tickets: Prices from £57.58. Book your place here.
Why Attend?
- For any practitioners interested in addressing the systemic issues and taking personal practical steps to improve their practice – this is the event for you! Become part of a network of like-minded professionals committed to supporting each other’s success and hear from leading figures in the legal profession who can motivate and guide you.
Attending the Her Bar Inaugural Conference 2025 is an investment in your future and in the future of the Bar! We look forward to seeing you at the event!
