Bill Text: CA SCR40 | 2025-2026 | Regular Session | Chaptered
Bill Title: Women in Law Month
Sponsorship: Partisan Bill (Democrat 20)
Status: (Passed) 2025-04-29 - Chaptered by Secretary of State. Res. Chapter 48, Statutes of 2025. [SCR40 Detail]
Download: California-2025-SCR40-Chaptered.html
Senate Concurrent Resolution
No. 40
CHAPTER 48
Relative to Women in Law.
[
Filed with
Secretary of State
April 29, 2025.
]
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
SCR 40, Blakespear.
Women in Law Month
This measure would proclaim April 2025 as Women in Law Month to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law and would encourage law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month, as provided.
Digest Key
Fiscal Committee: NOBill Text
WHEREAS, Women have made significant contributions to the legal profession and justice system in California, yet continue to face challenges in achieving full equality and representation; and
WHEREAS, The history of women in law in California dates back to pioneering figures, such as Clara Shortridge Foltz, who became the first female attorney in the state in 1878, paving the way for future generations of women in the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, In 1942, Annette Abbott Adams broke new ground by becoming the first female justice in California when she was appointed presiding justice of the Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District; and
WHEREAS, As of 2023, women comprised only 28 percent of all law firm partners nationwide, highlighting the persistent gender disparity in leadership roles within the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, As of 2025, women make up approximately 50 percent of law school graduates in California, yet remain underrepresented in leadership positions within law firms, the judiciary, and other legal institutions; and
WHEREAS, Despite progress, women in law continue to face obstacles such as gender bias, pay inequity, and work-life balance challenges that can hinder their career advancement and retention in the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, The inclusion of diverse women in the legal field, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities, brings invaluable perspectives, enriches the legal discourse, and enhances the quality of justice for all Californians; and
WHEREAS, Women in law have made substantial contributions to the advancement of civil rights, gender equality, and social justice, playing crucial roles in landmark cases and legislative reforms that have shaped California’s legal landscape; and
WHEREAS, Mentorship programs and professional support networks play a crucial role in the advancement and retention of women in the legal profession, fostering leadership skills and career development; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in law can inspire future generations of female legal professionals and promote greater gender equality in the field; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month in California to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law; and be it further
Resolved, That the Legislature encourages law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month by organizing events, programs, and initiatives that highlight the achievements of women in law and address ongoing challenges; and be it further
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.
