Musarrat Hilali is a trailblazing figure in Pakistan’s legal landscape, having achieved significant milestones in her career as a judge. Born on August 8, 1961, she’s notably the second woman to ascend to the esteemed position of judge in the Supreme Court of Pakistan, a momentous accomplishment in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Education
Musarrat Hilali’s educational foundation in law was laid at the esteemed Khyber Law College, a part of Peshawar University, where she pursued and successfully obtained her law degree. This educational journey at Khyber Law College provided her with the fundamental knowledge, legal principles, and skills crucial for her future endeavors in the legal field.
Her time at this institution likely equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the law, legal processes, and the intricate workings of the judicial system. The academic environment, coupled with rigorous studies, would have played a pivotal role in shaping her legal acumen and laying the groundwork for her successful career in law and judiciary.
The significance of her legal education from Khyber Law College, affiliated with Peshawar University, likely served as a strong pillar in her professional journey, contributing to her understanding of legal complexities and aiding her in making significant strides in her career as a respected judge within Pakistan’s legal landscape.
Early life:
Prior to her elevation to the Supreme Court, Hilali made history as the first woman to hold the prestigious position of Chief Justice in the Peshawar High Court. Her tenure in this role marked a significant breakthrough, showcasing her exceptional legal acumen and leadership abilities.
For a considerable period, from March 2013 until her appointment to the Supreme Court in July 2023, Hilali stood as the solitary female presence on the bench of the Peshawar High Court. This speaks volumes about her resilience, dedication, and expertise, as she navigated and thrived in an environment that historically lacked gender diversity.
Hilali’s journey is emblematic of the changing dynamics within the Pakistani judiciary, highlighting the increasing recognition of women’s competence and contributions in the legal realm. Her elevation to such esteemed positions serves as an inspiration for aspiring female lawyers and signifies a step forward in fostering gender inclusivity within the country’s legal institutions.
Career
Musarrat Hilali’s legal career is a testament to her dedication and steady ascent within the judicial system of Pakistan. Commencing as an advocate at the District Courts in 1983, she laid the foundation for her remarkable journey. Her enrollment as an Advocate of the High Court in 1988 signaled a significant milestone, signifying her progression and recognition within the legal fraternity.
Earning the status of Advocate of the Supreme Court in 2006 underscored her expertise and competence, showcasing her ability to handle complex legal matters at the highest level in Pakistan’s judicial hierarchy.
Hilali’s transition to the bench as an Additional Judge in March 2013 marked a pivotal shift in her career, allowing her to contribute from the judicial perspective. Her subsequent confirmation as a permanent Judge of the Peshawar High Court in 2014 solidified her position within the esteemed institution.
The recognition of her capabilities became even more apparent when she assumed the role of Acting Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court on April 1, 2023. Her subsequent elevation to the permanent position of Chief Justice within a little over a month speaks volumes about the trust placed in her judicial prowess and leadership abilities.
The apex of her career, however, came with her nomination for elevation to the Supreme Court. Recommended by Justice Qazi Faez Isa and unanimously approved by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan on June 14, 2023, this pivotal moment showcased the acknowledgment of her exceptional legal expertise and integrity.
President Arif Alvi’s appointment of Musarrat Hilali as a Justice of the Supreme Court on July 5, 2023, marked her historic elevation as the second woman to hold such a prestigious position after Ayesha A. Malik. This appointment not only recognizes her individual achievements but also symbolizes a step forward in promoting gender diversity and inclusivity within the highest echelons of Pakistan’s judiciary.
Achievements
She was the first female elected office bearer to hold the post of Secretary at the Bar.
Additionally, she became the inaugural female to be elected as Vice President at the Bar.
Hilali also marked her place in history as the first female elected General Secretary at the Bar.
She was the pioneering female elected as an Executive Member of the Supreme Court Bar Association.
Hilali became the first female Additional Advocate General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
She was the trailblazing woman appointed as Chairperson of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Environmental Protection Tribunal.
Hilali earned the distinction of being the first female Ombudsman for Protection Against Harassment of Women at Workplace.
Notably, she made history as the first woman judge from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to be elected as an election tribunal for the 2018 Pakistani general elections.