Program

We’re starting off The Women in Law Conference 2024 with a warm welcome to all attendees.   All Sessions take place at the University of Vienna, Oskar-Morgenstern-Platz 1, 1090 Vienna, [open map]

The world of law is changing, and Gen Z, women*, LGBTQI+, POCs, and other minorities are essential to forging a path ahead. Our Young Voices Panel is the perfect opportunity to gather voices from all sides of the legal professions to discuss how we can create a more diverse and welcoming future for law. Hear from inspiring individuals under 35, including lawyers, judges, academics, and in-house counsel, who are working to create a better legal landscape. They will share their inspiring stories as well as strategies for ensuring that the legal professions align with their values, and remain a source of hope and progress for future generations. Gain an insight into their thoughts on legal processes, the challenges faced in legal professions, and innovative solutions to create an inclusive and meaningful future of law.

How to Promote Pay Transparency and Combat the Gender Pay Gap in Europe What are the main challenges Europe faces in implementing the Pay Transparency Directive, and how is the Directive impacting the Gender Pay Gap in Europe right now? How can legal professionals contribute to the Directive’s implementation and help to close the gap in their companies and fields of work?   A new book by The European Women Lawyers Association (EWLA) analyzes the Pay Transparency Directive’s content, goals, and impact. Expert authors will discuss their findings in an exclusive book presentation at the Women in Law Conference.

The Women in Law Initiative and the Mayor of Vienna, Dr. Michael Ludwig, invite all attendees to the traditional Vienna Heuriger (wine-cellar) 10er Marie. Ottakringer Str. 222-224, 1160 Wien

Welcome addresses by supporters and patrons of The Women in Law Initiative:   All Sessions take place at the University of Vienna, Oskar-Morgenstern-Platz 1, 1090 Vienna, [open map]

Staying Successful in the Legal Professions in 2030+ by Embracing the Artificial Intelligence Wave in Law Successful legal professions in 2030+ will require a new approach to the practice of law. As AI advances, certain jobs will inevitably be replaced. This track will offer a comprehensive understanding of what it will take to smartly embrace the artificial intelligence wave and keep up with the legal industry in a changing landscape. We will explore which legal processes might be immune to AI, which procedures must be adapted to remain competitive, and which solutions legal professionals offer, that AI cannot.   Our experts will also address the benefits of legal tech and AI. They will discuss how technologies can free up space and time for more creative, attractive, and meaningful work. They will also share ideas on how legal tech can foster equality.   We will imagine what the legal professions may look like after 2030, and how legal professionals can prepare for success in this new era. Join us and be part of the conversation on how the legal professions can thrive in the future, whilst also contributing to a better world.   introductory keynote expert panel discussion  

Strategies and Tactics: Empowering Legal Professionals in Fighting Gender-Based Violence and Creating a Gender-Inclusive Practice Legal professionals make a significant difference in the prevention of gender-based violence. This track provides an in-depth exploration of the unique challenges legal professionals face when it comes to dealing with gender-based violence.   We’ll discuss topics ranging from sexual harassment all the way to femicide as they apply to all of the legal profession. From understanding the relevant laws and regulations to developing strategies around the prevention of violence in all of its forms, our experts help all legal professionals recognize the nuances of gender-based violence and how it affects their practice.   Participants in our conference will leave with an understanding of how to help and assist victims of violence, the best ways to pro-actively improve their work environment to be gender-inclusive, and the ability to better recognize and empower those who may be vulnerable to gender-based violence. Let us help you make a difference in the lives of those affected by gender-based violence.   introductory keynote expert panel discussion  

Staying Successful in the Legal Professions in 2030+ by Embracing the Artificial Intelligence Wave in Law Successful legal professions in 2030+ will require a new approach to the practice of law. As AI advances, certain jobs will inevitably be replaced. This track will offer a comprehensive understanding of what it will take to smartly embrace the artificial intelligence wave and keep up with the legal industry in a changing landscape. We will explore which legal processes might be immune to AI, which procedures must be adapted to remain competitive, and which solutions legal professionals offer, that AI cannot.   Our experts will also address the benefits of legal tech and AI. They will discuss how technologies can free up space and time for more creative, attractive, and meaningful work. They will also share ideas on how legal tech can foster equality.   We will imagine what the legal professions may look like after 2030, and how legal professionals can prepare for success in this new era. Join us and be part of the conversation on how the legal professions can thrive in the future, whilst also contributing to a better world.   delve deeper into the topic in this interactive practical workshop

Strategies and Tactics: Empowering Legal Professionals in Fighting Gender-Based Violence and Creating a Gender-Inclusive Practice Legal professionals make a significant difference in the prevention of gender-based violence. This track provides an in-depth exploration of the unique challenges legal professionals face when it comes to dealing with gender-based violence.   We’ll discuss topics ranging from sexual harassment all the way to femicide as they apply to all of the legal profession. From understanding the relevant laws and regulations to developing strategies around the prevention of violence in all of its forms, our experts help all legal professionals recognize the nuances of gender-based violence and how it affects their practice.   Participants in our conference will leave with an understanding of how to help and assist victims of violence, the best ways to pro-actively improve their work environment to be gender-inclusive, and the ability to better recognize and empower those who may be vulnerable to gender-based violence. Let us help you make a difference in the lives of those affected by gender-based violence.   delve deeper into the topic in this interactive practical workshop

Building a Prosperous Future For All: How the Legal Professions Can Embrace ESG and SDG Principles We are proud to offer a comprehensive conference track focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues and principles and their impact on women in the legal professions. This track will also discuss the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are a call to action in the global mission to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.   This track will help you gain knowledge in ESG and the SDGs, enabling you to, among other things, start building a business model that works to benefit the planet and people alike. Together with our experts, you will discuss a wide range of topics, such as ESG as an equity factor, ESG as a business model for legal professionals, the ever-increasing importance of ESG reports for clients, in-house counsel, and compliance officers, and the impact of SDG-inspired legislation on the legal professions.   Join us and discover how legal professionals can ensure a prosperous future by becoming leaders in promoting gender-based social responsibility and sustainable development.   introductory keynote expert panel discussion  

Breaking Down Barriers: Effective Ways to Ensure Access to Justice for All Access to justice is far too often restricted for those who need it most. The dichotomy between black letter law and the reality is stark in many countries. Our conference track on “Access to Justice” will explore the most innovative and efficient ways to break down barriers to meaningful justice and how to provide equal representation to underrepresented and marginalized groups.   Our lineup of distinguished speakers, including representatives from the European Union, the World Bank, and other influential bodies, will provide expert solutions to questions such as how to finance access to justice efforts, how to develop partnerships with key stakeholders, and how to effectively employ class action lawsuits and pro bono work to build equitable access to justice worldwide.   This conference track will provide a unique opportunity to unlock the latest approaches and to discuss the regional differences, challenges, and best practices in improving access to justice globally, ensuring no one is overlooked. Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to become part of the solution, and to promote equality and fairness within the justice system.     introductory keynote expert panel discussion  

Building a Prosperous Future For All: How the Legal Professions Can Embrace ESG and SDG Principles We are proud to offer a comprehensive conference track focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues and principles and their impact on women in the legal professions. This track will also discuss the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are a call to action in the global mission to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.   This track will help you gain knowledge in ESG and the SDGs, enabling you to, among other things, start building a business model that works to benefit the planet and people alike. Together with our experts, you will discuss a wide range of topics, such as ESG as an equity factor, ESG as a business model for legal professionals, the ever-increasing importance of ESG reports for clients, in-house counsel, and compliance officers, and the impact of SDG-inspired legislation on the legal professions.   Join us and discover how legal professionals can ensure a prosperous future by becoming leaders in promoting gender-based social responsibility and sustainable development.   delve deeper into the topic in this interactive practical workshop

Breaking Down Barriers: Effective Ways to Ensure Access to Justice for All Access to justice is far too often restricted for those who need it most. The dichotomy between black letter law and the reality is stark in many countries. Our conference track on “Access to Justice” will explore the most innovative and efficient ways to break down barriers to meaningful justice and how to provide equal representation to underrepresented and marginalized groups.   Our lineup of distinguished speakers, including representatives from the European Union, the World Bank, and other influential bodies, will provide expert solutions to questions such as how to finance access to justice efforts, how to develop partnerships with key stakeholders, and how to effectively employ class action lawsuits and pro bono work to build equitable access to justice worldwide.   This conference track will provide a unique opportunity to unlock the latest approaches and to discuss the regional differences, challenges, and best practices in improving access to justice globally, ensuring no one is overlooked. Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to become part of the solution, and to promote equality and fairness within the justice system.   delve deeper into the topic in this interactive practical workshop

Palace of Justice (Justizpalast) Schmerlingplatz 10-11, 1010 Vienna  [open map]   formal attire requested Check-In: 19:00 – 19:30 Please arrive early to leave enough time to check in and take your seats

We end The Women in Law Conference 2024 with a Saturday filled with social programs and ample opportunities for further networking.