How does a woman make a change in the legal system ?
#law #law-practice #women-in-law
2 answers
Kim’s Answer
Janai,
I'm not sure what you are asking. If you want to change something, what do you want to change? Or, do you mean, "how does a woman make a "difference" in the legal system?
There are support groups for women in law, women in law enforcement, etc. I hope that you find a good mentor through one of them. Both of these fields are dominated by men. Having spent an entire career in law enforcement, what I learned is that we have to be able to prove ourselves. Not be just "good" at what we do, but be awesome! Be confident, but not cocky, be receptive to feedback/constructive criticism, and help those who follow.
The one tactic I found that served me best as I went from Rookie to Veteran officer, was to NOT think of myself as a "woman cop." We were all "cops." I found that if I thought that my gender somehow made a difference, my (male) peers would treat me as "different," and my self perception would have me as "different." However, I knew if I were to mess up, they would immediately use that as justification as to why women should not be police officers. So I learned everything I could, did the best I could, and even helped them write their reports when they needed help!
I therefore encourage you to go out there and be a LAWYER. And, be the best darn lawyer you can. Make us proud!
Kim
Mitchell’s Answer
Don't let anyone tell you that you have less a chance because you are a woman. Some of my best fellow students in law school, and my best and most effective colleagues in the legal system, and some of the best judges for that matter, have been women. These days I would venture to say it's possibly an advantage father than a hinderance. Good luck.