In this study, the finite element method is used to investigate the variation and distribution nature of lateral earth pressure and displacement pattern behind a rigid cantilever wall. To provide resistance to overturning and sliding, the design of cantilever retaining wall starts by proportioning the wall dimension. Commonly, a limit equilibrium method is used to analyze the stability of the wall. However, the limit equilibrium method is unable to predict the displacement of the wall. In most design cases, a preliminary ratio between the base width and the wall height is assumed from 0.4 to 0.7 to ensure the stability requirement, however, there were variation in displacement pattern of the wall in terms of rotations and translations, and the lateral pressure profile. For the simulation of inverted T-shape wall which supports backfill sand PLAXIS 3D connect edition were used. The hardening soil model and linear elastic model, are used for modelling the soil and the retaining wall respectively. For validating the proposed numerical model reference was made to physical model test. Within the scope of the analysis, inverted T type cantilever retaining wall parameters such as the ratio of base width to wall height ranging from 0.4 to 0.7 for different wall height case considered. Considering the geometry, dimensions of the wall and the hardening soil model the predicted pattern and magnitude of wall displacement were discussed. Finally, the displacement pattern of wall, the nature of lateral earth pressure distribution acting on the wall stem and the slope of lateral pressure distribution line investigated for all the walls with 4 m, 6 m and 9m heights. Wall with smaller base width develops active earth pressure with in higher displacement limit and wall with larger base width develops active earth pressure in smaller displacement limit. For the value of base width to wall height ratio less than or equal to 0.5 the rotational effect of displacement pattern dominant. However, for the value of base width to wall height ratio greater than and equal to 0.6 the translational effect of displacement pattern governs.