Gender bias affects property and custody decisions in divorce cases. It sometimes determines which judicial candidates are selected and which attorneys receive more complex, challenging cases. Gender bias affects the prosecution, or nonprosecution, of violent crimes, particularly in cases of rape and domestic violence. Several task forces on gender bias in the courts have documented the many manifestations of gender bias in the legal system and its impact on women and have made comprehensive recommendations for reform. New Jersey was the first State to establish a task force on women in the courts which was comprised of 31 male and female trial educators and members of the public. New York's task force was composed of 23 judges, bar leaders, legislators, lawyers, law professors, and community leaders. Both task forces examined such areas as divorce and custody awards, domestic violence, rape, damages, the courtroom environment, and courtroom personnel. 23 references.