The purpose of the Metropolitan Black Bar Association (MBBA), a unified citywide association of African-American and other minority lawyers, is to advance equality and excellence in the pursuit of justice, aid the progress of Blacks and other minorities in the profession, address legal issues affecting the citywide community, and foster the study of law by encouraging the personal and professional development of young lawyers and law students.

Founded on July 5, 1984, the Metropolitan Black Bar Association was created from the merger of the Harlem Lawyers Association, founded in 1921 and the Bedford Stuyvesant Lawyers Association, founded in 1933. As one of the largest organizations of Black attorneys in New York State, the MBBA continues the rich legacy of its two predecessor organizations by providing a voice for Black legal professionals in the communities it serves.

Today, the MBBA is comprised of mostly minority attorneys in large and small law firms, solo practitioners, all levels of government, academia, corporations, financial institutions, not-for-profit organizations and the judiciary.

MEMBER PROGRAMS

·         Analyzes and comments on proposed legislation and rules.

·         Presents testimony at hearings and other public forums.

·         Screens candidates for judicial office and publishes recommendations concerning their suitability for election or appointment.

·         Sponsors lectures, workshops, and seminars on substantive legal and professional development topics.

·         Co-sponsors Continuing Legal Education classes and scholarships for CLE classes.

·         Hosts events for the development and strengthening of professional and social relationships.

·         Promotes and recognizes the accomplishments of minority lawyers and judges.

·         Organizes and supports community projects such as Toys-For-Tots, Adopt-A-School, Y.E.S., Mentoring Program, and community legal clinics.

·         Co-sponsors projects and events with non-minority city -wide bar associations.

MEMBER BENEFITS

·         Free admission to general meetings and receptions with prominent legal scholars and public speakers

·         Continuing legal education through workshops and seminars that provide growth and professional development

·         Increase professional advancement and networking opportunities.

·         Opportunities to positively impact the community through seminars, workshop and mentoring

·         Affiliated with the National Bar Association.

Join MBBA