Top Female Judges of Pakistan Breaking Legal Barriers

The legal landscape of Pakistan has long been dominated by men, but a growing number of female judges have challenged norms and carved out historic roles in the judiciary. From trial courts to the Supreme Court, women in Pakistan's legal profession are now commanding respect, rewriting precedents, and delivering landmark judgments.

🚺 Why Celebrating Female Judges Matters

Female representation in the judiciary not only reflects gender equality but also ensures that diverse perspectives are part of legal interpretations. These judges play a crucial role in promoting access to justice for women, minorities, and marginalized communities.

⚖️ Justice Ayesha A. Malik – First Female Judge of the Supreme Court

Justice Ayesha Malik made history in January 2022 by becoming the first female judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Known for her progressive rulings, she previously served at the Lahore High Court and delivered the landmark judgment outlawing the "two-finger virginity test" in rape cases.

Her appointment broke a 75-year-long barrier and opened the door for future generations of women in the highest echelons of law.

👩‍⚖️ Justice (Retd.) Syeda Tahira Safdar – First Female Chief Justice of a High Court

Justice Syeda Tahira Safdar was appointed as the Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court in 2018. She is the first woman in Pakistan’s history to hold the position of a High Court Chief Justice.

She began her career in 1982 and rose through the ranks due to her dedication and legal brilliance. Her leadership became a source of pride for Balochistan and a powerful symbol for aspiring female lawyers nationwide.

🧕 Justice (Retd.) Nasira Iqbal – A Voice for Justice and Human Rights

Known for her fearless opinions and commitment to civil rights, Justice Nasira Iqbal served as a judge of the Lahore High Court from 1994 to 2002. A Harvard Law School graduate, she was a vocal advocate for legal reforms and women's rights.

Even after retirement, she continues to influence legal discourse and remains a respected legal educator and reformer.

📝 Contributions of Other Female Judges

• Justice Ashraf Jehan – Served in the Federal Shariat Court and was the first female to be appointed there.
• Justice Syeda Rafat Imran – Known for her contributions to child protection law and family court reforms.
• Justice Shagufta Aziz – A leading figure in Islamabad's judiciary with a strong stance on constitutional interpretation.

📊 Current Statistics on Female Judges in Pakistan

As of 2025:

• Less than 10% of Pakistan’s judges are women.
• Punjab has the highest number of female judges in district judiciary.
• Representation remains low in the Supreme Court and Shariat Courts.

📢 Barriers They Overcame

These women defied:

• Gender stereotypes and conservative social norms
• Institutional resistance in judicial appointments
• Lack of mentorship and legal representation for women

Their perseverance has created pathways for others to follow.

💡 Impact on Legal Landscape

The presence of female judges has directly impacted:

• Gender-sensitive judgments
• Better access to justice for women and children
• Public confidence in a more inclusive judiciary

🔗 Related Posts

• History of Judiciary in Pakistan – Key Events from 1947 to Today
• Bar Council Politics and Lawyer Conduct in Pakistan
• Refugee & Stateless Persons Law in Pakistan

📣 Conclusion

These trailblazing female judges have changed the legal fabric of Pakistan. Their careers are a powerful reminder that law, when inclusive, becomes more just. As we move into the future, it is essential that the judiciary continues to welcome, support, and promote women who seek to uphold justice.

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📌 About the Author

Syed Mustafa Hussain Gardezi is an Advocate of the High Court and the founder of Lets Legislate, a legal blog that simplifies complex Pakistani laws for the public, students, and professionals.