Some 70% of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) lawyers believe that the judicial selection process discriminates against them, while the same proportion say they would be likely to apply for a judicial role themselves if there were more existing judges who were openly gay, according to a report published today.

The report, prepared by LGBT network the InterLaw Diversity Forum and based on a survey of more than 150 practising LGBT lawyers, also found that 16% of respondents had already applied for judicial office, and 96% believed that the work would be enjoyable and provide an opportunity for public service.

However, the isolated nature of the judicial role, the culture of the judiciary, travel requirements and the loss of flexibility were all identified as obstacles to participation.

Some 85-90% of respondents said that the creation of the Judicial Appointments Commission was a ‘positive development’ towards countering perceived prejudice in the selection process.

The report called for the monitoring of the sexual orientation of applicants and appointed judges to ensure that the judiciary reflects and serves the whole of society.

InterLaw founder Daniel Winterfeldt, partner at City firm CMS Cameron McKenna, said: ‘This research once again highlights the importance of role models in encouraging other LGBT people to play their full professional and social roles.

‘It is vital that the judiciary is seen to reflect the society it serves because confidence in the judiciary is so central to the functioning of a fair society.’