Female lawyer experiences belittling comments
By MaryAnn Bennett
Standard-Examiner Contributed
Fri, 07/29/2011 - 1:30pm
I am a 26-year-old female, attorney from an East Coast law school that was 51 percent men and 49 percent women. I felt like an equal until I moved back to Utah. In Utah, 77 percent of attorneys are male while only 23 percent are female. I feel like I have been treated differently, stereotyped, and even harassed because of my gender. Recently, at a continuing legal education course, I asked an attorney with 18 years of experience if I could ask him question. His response? "Sure. But only because I think you're cute."
Once, without my consent, a male client reached over to tuck a piece of my hair behind my ear so that I could look "better" in court. Later he invited me to go shooting with him while mentioning his wife and kids were out of town.
If I had a dollar for every time someone asked "Are you a paralegal?" right after finding out I work for a law firm, I'd be rich.
At one hearing, even while wearing a suit and carrying a file, I was asked "Are you represented by an attorney?" as I approached opposing counsel.
I feel like male lawyers don't have these same experiences. It can be uncomfortable to be a woman lawyer. I have to develop thicker skin. I hope by sharing my feelings, more people will be aware of the disparity and avoid making other women after me experience the same discomfort.
MaryAnn Bennett
Ogden
How sad! It sounds like you've already had your fair share of chauvinistic and patronizing experiences in good ol Utah. I went on a date with a guy once who when he found out my major wasn't elementary education would not let up all night about how that is the only profession a guy would want to marry a girl for. Hang in there!
ReplyDeleteYou must have some absolutely hair pulling experiences Maryann. Acting as a mentor for your Alma Mater could do wonders to help other women in similar circumstances.
ReplyDeleteI have no doubt of your competence as a professional. I suppose we must forgive some people as they forget or never knew just how driven and bright you are. Keep up the good work.