Step back in time to 1883, where Italy’s first modern female lawyer, Lidia Poët, defies societal norms in Netflix’s captivating series, ‘The Law According to Lidia Poët.’, Lidia embarks on a Sherlock Holmes-esque journey, solving crimes and challenging the male-dominated legal landscape of Turin.
While the series unfolds as a thrilling period drama, the real-life story that inspired ‘The Law According to Lidia Poët’ is truly extraordinary. Lidia Poët was a trailblazing 19th-century Italian lawyer who fearlessly fought to pave the way for women to practice law. Born in 1855, she graduated from the University of Turin in law, making history as the first modern female lawyer in Italy after receiving her degree on June 17, 1881.
After two years of honing her skills at a lawyer’s office, Lidia Poët faced the theoretical and practical examinations of the Order of Advocates of Turin. Finally, on August 9, 1883, she was officially admitted to the Order of Lawyers and Prosecutors of Turin, marking a momentous achievement for women’s rights. However, her victory was short-lived, as she faced a relentless battle against the patriarchal system that sought to keep women out of legal affairs.
Within three months of being admitted, Poët was disbarred when the Office of the Attorney General lodged a complaint with the Court of Appeal of Turin. The opposition argued that women were prohibited by law and public policy from practicing law. Despite her appeals to the Supreme Court of Cassation, the verdict was upheld, adding to her disappointment.
Yet, Lidia Poët’s spirit remained unbroken. Although she couldn’t leave her signature on letters or directly appear in court, she continued to work as an advocate, tirelessly performing her duties. Her dedication didn’t go unnoticed, sparking a public debate that garnered support from 25 Italian newspapers, advocating for women’s participation in male-dominated professions.
Poët’s impact extended beyond the legal arena, as she became an influential figure in the international women’s movement. Joining the National Council of Italian Women in 1903, she passionately campaigned for suffrage, inching closer to the dream of women gaining the right to vote in local elections, which was partially realized in 1925.
In 1920, after 37 years of relentless struggle, Lidia Poët’s name was finally reinstated on the roll of lawyers, a testament to her resilience and the transformative power of her fight for gender equality.
As ‘The Law According to Lidia Poët’ weaves a captivating narrative, it pays tribute to a remarkable woman who defied conventions, challenged the status quo, and left an indelible mark on the history of law and women’s rights. Lidia Poët’s story is an enduring inspiration for generations to come, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one can ignite change and forge a path for others to follow.
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