Work Life Balance and Gender Bias Emerge as Top Hurdles for Women Lawyers, Yet Optimism Persists: SCBA Survey [Read Order]

A comprehensive survey by the Supreme CourtBar Association (SCBA) of women advocates in the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) has highlighted systemic hurdles within the legal profession, with work life imbalance and gender bias emerging as the primary challenges.

Despite these persistent gender disparities, the study reveals a notable sense of aspiration and optimism, with many women lawyers still eager to recommend the profession and take up leadership roles.

The SCBA’s preliminary findings, derived from the "Documenting Voices of Women Advocates of Delhi NCR" survey of 301 respondents, underscored the demanding environment, especially for new entrants. A Huge 84.1 percent of those surveyed identified themselves as first generation lawyers, indicating a struggle to establish themselves without existing networks or familial support.

Key Hurdles: Work Life Balance and Gender Bias

Work life balance was cited as the greatest challenge by 34.2 percent of respondents, reflecting the intense demands of litigation combined with a lack of structural support. The survey quantified the pervasive issue of gender discrimination:

• 33.1 percent of women lawyers reported that they have definitely experienced gender bias in their careers, with an additional 29.1 percent facing it occasionally.
• Among first generation women lawyers, the experience of bias was even more acute, reported by 39.6 percent.
• In terms of leadership, almost 58 percent of respondents believe women do not have equal opportunity for leadership roles within the Bar.

Impact of Marriage and Motherhood

Family responsibilities were identified as turning points that impede career progression. The survey found that:

• 38.2 percent of women lawyers faced hardship in continuing work after marriage.
• 33.5 percent experienced difficulties when deciding to have a child, and 31.3 percent struggled to get their matters deferred due to childcare responsibilities.

In light of these struggles, an overwhelming 95.4 percent of women advocates highlighted the need for stronger institutional policies. These desired reforms include maternity benefits, crèche facilities, flexible schedules, and enhanced workplace safety protocols.

Positive Road Ahead

Despite the significant challenges reported, the survey data points towards an aspirational mindset and sustained optimism about the future of the profession.

• When asked about their overall experience, 38.5 percent described it as "sometimes encouraging, sometimes discouraging," however, a combined 54.1 percent still found their experience to be encouraging to varying degrees.
• A majority of 64.1 percent said they would recommend a legal career to their daughters or close female relatives/friends.
• Reflecting a desire for greater institutional representation, 58.9 percent expressed a willingness to take up leadership posts in Bar Councils and Bar Associations.
• Many women lawyers also see a potential career path in the judiciary, with 43.1 percent expressing a desire to transition from practicing advocates to judges.
• The report noted a 6.2 percent of women who affected by Sexual Harassment at Workplace.

The SCBA survey findings underline a legal landscape that is slowly opening doors for women, while highlighting the urgent need to address systemic inequalities and work life constraints through concrete policy reforms.

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