Gender Disparity in Judicial System of Pakistan: Attitude and Practices of Lawyers

Abstract

Gender discrimination is prevailing in the legal profession all over the globe. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the attitude and practices of lawyers towards gender disparity and the factors responsible for this menace in the judicial system of Pakistan. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted. A five-point Likert scale was employed for measuring the response of each participant. The SPSS (version 21) and the Microsoft office (version 2013) were utilized for data analysis. Descriptive statistics like mean, median, and percentages along with regression analysis were used to present the data. Many participants agreed with the statement “The greatest significant issue affecting woman is considered to be sexual harassment” (84.2%). Most of the participants remained neutral in response to the statement “I value every one of my coworkers, acquaintances, professors, and family members at same amount, nevertheless of their sex specification or appearance” (84.2%). Factors like male gender, having 30-40 years of age, and practicing in civil and high courts for 5 years in the field of criminal law are associated with gender discrimination in the legal profession. The participants showed neutral attitudes and practices towards gender discrimination.