The recent research carried out by Professor Dame Hazel Genn and quoted in Joshua Rozenberg’s article [see [2009] Gazette, 15 January, 8] highlighted clearly the barriers that women solicitors can face when applying for a judicial appointment.

First, it can be difficult for women lawyers to juggle the demands of practice and family life; second, there may be difficulty in persuading other partners in their firm that they should have time off to sit; and third, part-time sitting can be perceived by other partners to show a lack of commitment to the firm and their work.

The Association of Women Solicitors considers that these are unnecessary barriers to entry, and that a judicial appointment can enhance a solicitor’s skills and contribute to their practice. To help women deal with the barriers to entry, the AWS has launched a campaign to encourage women to apply for judicial and public appointment.

The AWS is in a unique position to reach out to women lawyers and encourage those with suitable experience and aptitude to apply for posts. Full details on the campaign can shortly be found on our website at www.womensolicitors.org.uk.

Tilly Rubens, Honorary secretary, AWS