Historic: Britain To Get First Ever Female Lord Chief Justice In 755 years

For the first time in history, a woman will be crowned as the next Lord Chief Justice of Britain. After 755 years of the position of Lord Chief Justice being incepted, this is the first time a woman is set to hold the office and end the men's stronghold on the post. The two women contenders for the position—Dame Victoria Sharp and Dame Sue Carr—are shortlisted and will be interviewed by a panel.

Dame Victoria Sharp, 67, is a senior judge, and Dame Sue Carr, 58, is an appeal court judge. Both are the only candidates on the final shortlist. On selection, the final candidate will lead the judiciary in England and Wales. The judiciary position of Lord Chief Justice was first established in 1268, over 100 lords held it, but they were only men.

The first female Lord Chief Justice of Britain will be named within the next 15 days, as per the Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk. The final candidate will be recommended to UK prime minister, and King Charles will approve it. The UK's constitutional law also needs to make necessary changes to reflect the new title of Lady Chief Justice. Since women were never appointed to the role, it was always referred to as Lord, as per the WION report. What may the result be both are leading to break judiciary hlass ceiling

Britain's First Female Lord Chief Justice

Who Is Dame Victoria Sharp?

Dame Victoria Sharp is a leading candidate to succeed the throne of the next Lord Chief. She was awarded a law doctorate at Bristol University. Sharp is known for putting in long hours. She prioritised her work, in fact, once she experienced labour in court, as per the report. She is married to a doctor, and together they are raising four children. 

Who Is Dame Sue Carr?

Dame Sue Carr is also a contender for becoming the first woman and next Lord Chief. Carr pursued her education at Trinity College Cambridge and Wycombe Abbey School in Buckinghamshire. She is the mother of three and always knew she has to give it all. "I threw myself into everything I could at school, including music," she said in an interview. For her, feminism means- having true freedom of choice. 

Image credit: WION

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