WOMEN LAWYERS UNDER THE GLASS CEILING: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Based on a study of the perceptions and experiences of lawyers at a Regional Prosecutor’s Office in Chile, the article analyzes the glass ceiling in relation to access to senior posts in the National Prosecution Service. Specifically, it identifies the barriers encountered by women in their professional careers. The study uses a qualitative methodology, with information collected through semi-structured interviews. It finds that the main barriers that constitute this organization’s glass ceiling are gender stereotypes, work-family balance and a patriarchal culture. The study concludes that the institution needs to take measures to adapt to the social change that has occurred in Chilean society in recent years, incorporating gender equality criteria for both access to senior positions and its members’ career development.