About Us

Greetings fromOur President

In January 2025, we will embark on the 75th year of the Barristers Association of Philadelphia. This milestone celebrates and honors our rich legacy and reaffirms our commitment to justice, equity, and service to Philadelphia and the surrounding areas and each other.

For 75 years, the Barristers Association has been a beacon of light in the legal profession, championing the advancement of African American attorneys and advocating for the importance of diversity, inclusion, and mentorship. We are the largest association of Black attorneys in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. From inception, Barristers has laid a strong foundation of advocacy, ensuring that Black attorneys have the support, resources, and opportunities to thrive.

Each member, past and present, has contributed to this rich history, and I am humbled to serve alongside such dedicated and passionate professionals.
As we navigate these turbulent times, I want to remind you that we will continue to do the work.
On behalf of the Barristers Association of Philadelphia, I thank you for your continued support and dedication. We stand on the shoulders of giants—those who came before us, paved the way, and lifted us higher.
Here’s to 75 more years of service, advocacy, and leadership.
With gratitude,
Courtney N. Richardson
2024-25 President

Our Mission

Today, The Barristers’ Association of Philadelphia, Inc. continues to provide a very important and unique role for its members by providing a forum for discussion and dissemination of information of matters of particular interest to Black attorneys and the Philadelphia Black community at large. Our membership now encompasses a network of approximately 1,000 lawyers and jurists who serve society at the highest positions in both the private and public sectors of the legal profession. As an affiliate of the National Bar Association, the Barristers’ Association is an active participant in a community of practicing Black lawyers, judges and law students in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Our History

1950's

Establishment

Established in 1950 to address the professional needs and development of Black lawyers in the City of Philadelphia through programs such as seminars, cultural events and publications.

1950's

1973's

Racial Discrimination Elimination

Members of the Barristers’ Association served on the Liacouras Commission, which investigated ways to eliminate racial discrimination in bar admission procedures.

1973's

1978's

Addition to Voter Registration Pools

The Barristers’ Association joined other concerned groups in filing an action against the Philadelphia Registration Commission which resulted in the addition of 50,000 Philadelphians to the voter registration pools.

1978's

1983's

Merit Selection of Judges

The Barristers’ Association provided testimony before the Pennsylvania State Legislature on the issue of the merit selection of judges.

1983's

Today

Youth Awareness & Career Opportunities Promotion

In more recent years, the Barristers’ Association has sponsored or participated in activities that promoted youth awareness and career opportunities in the legal profession, and increased citizens’ awareness of their rights under the law. Scholarships to minority law students at local law schools are awarded annually to further encourage and support Black students in their pursuit of a degree in law. Continuing Legal Education seminars and political education forums have been offered to members of the Barristers’ Association to facilitate professional development and political awareness

Today