Power of Diversity in the Legal Field
A significant body of research demonstrates that diversity, representation, and inclusion are essential components for organizational health and long-term success. McKinsey & Co., which conducts extensive annual studies on the relationship between diversity and business performance, reports that companies with more women in top leadership positions are 21 percent more likely to outperform their industry peers, while those with more ethnically and culturally diverse executive teams are 33 percent more likely to outperform their peers. Moreover, member firms of the Law Firm Diversity Collaborative have a higher percentage of diverse equity partners than the national average, which in turn creates a greater opportunity to attract and retain laterals, says Michele Coleman Mayes, a member of the LCLD and senior vice president and general counsel at the New York Public Library. According to the American Bar Association’s 2020 National Lawyer Population Survey, approximately 13 percent of all lawyers in 2017 identified as members of racial or ethnic minority groups.
As centers of excellence for legal education, black-owned firms can deliver on these key performance indicators when new leaders emerge from law school today . Having self-identified as disfavored and disregarded, by families, schools, peers, and certainly prospects in the marketplace, black lawyers have little choice but to outwork everyone including their own expectations if they wish to pursue a legal career. The old adage "you’ve got to be twice as good to get half as much" suggests that even with that work ethic, the market will continue to place a premium on hiring for perceived "fit" over qualifications, thus perpetuating the underrepresentation of black lawyers in the profession. In contrast, black-owned firms gauge opportunities for their ability to deliver unparalleled service; this is particularly true in consumer facing law practices with high stakes and limited access to resources. The math is easy; black-owned firms offer equal to or better expertise, value propositions, and results while collecting the data to demonstrate how they do it. Brand reputation cannot offset the higher cost of retaining black-owned firms, former clients and peers say. Over time, the pure inertia of the status quo is not a proposition for long-term success.
Top Black-Owned Law Firm Profiles
While the list of influential black-owned law firms is long, several stand out as larger and more impactful than others. According to a 2022 Law.com survey, the largest black-owned firm by head count is Columbia University Law School alumni Kenneth ("Kenny"), Al. Johnson, and Roderick D. Darby, which focuses on insurance defense work in Jacksonville, Florida; the survey also found that the largest black-owned firm by revenue is Bradshaw, Steele, Whitehead & Associates, LLP (BSW), a boutique law firm in Atlanta specializing in commercial defense and local government practice. Third on the head count list is The Harper Firm, LLC, a personal injury practice in New York City and North Carolina, co-owned and managed by Cornell alumni and close friends Ouida L. Harper and T. Duane Harper, Jr. Other large firms include the New Orleans firm Ransoo & O’Rourke, which focuses on environmental law, and Los Angeles-based Gathings, Harys, Kaplan & Skyttes, L.C. (GHKS), which is a premier minority-owned real estate, general business, and litigation law firm founded and led by women.
Pioneering Black Lawyers and Their Journey
The legal industry has been transformed by the power of black-owned law firms, founded and led by attorneys who have paved the way for future generations. A prime example is Charles Hamilton Houston, a name synonymous with groundbreaking legal accomplishments. A graduate of Harvard Law School, he was the first dean of the Howard University School of Law and an instructor to Thurgood Marshall and roughly 100 other future black attorneys. He was a crucial figure in the Civil Rights Movement. Houston created the development of jurisprudence to combat segregation and discrimination, and his theories were used in landmark Supreme Court cases like Brown v. Board of Education.
Mayor Kaigler A. Walker started his law firm on December 30, 1910, making him the first African American lawyer in Mississippi. Kaigler Walker and Company would eventually merge into a partnership with Step Show. Kaigler’s most notable cases involved representing the last three living survivors of the Caps Massacre in 1863. He is remembered for building one of the first black law offices in the country, along with his commitment to serving the most oppressed members of society.
Since 1978, Earl Davis has been a founding partner of Davis & Fredrickson, LLC. The first African American attorney to work in Clay County, Florida, Davis was raised in a racially-segregated neighborhood that felt the oppressive after-effects of slavery. He fought for civil rights during his tenure with the ACLU and former State Attorney, and he uses his experience and insight to serve clients with unparalleled sensitivity and understanding.
Benefits to Community and Society at Large
For black-owned law firms, the impact is about more than just serving their local clientele or even their countrymen. Many of North America’s top black-owned law firms seek to grow their impact beyond narrow canals, by giving back to the broader community through pro bono work and other initiatives. A look at these firms and their founders shows that they are an integral part of the global community, and are making a difference at home and abroad.
Joseph L. Rainey Memorial Law Firm is one such team. Founder and Principal Attorney, Davidson F. Hermes states, "We serve clients in many counties of SC. We have also tried to be involved in communities outside of Charleston and Georgetown Counties. Whenever possible we take on pro bono work, a series of fair and affordable payment plans and legal clinics to meet the needs of lower income persons in the community." Mr. Hermes doesn’t just leave it at pro bono service in his own community, but has a global outreach mindset, sharing that "A portion of our fees collected are dedicated to help sustain the efforts of the youth organization ‘Talk About It’ in Jamaica."
Numerous other firms make similar contributions beyond the borders of the United States. For instance, members of Squire Patton Boggs pledged to raise funds for "Pink Ribbon Red Ribbon", a sustainable partnership with Susan G. Komen® and co-founded by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton when she was serving in that position. The initiative seeks to improve women’s health across Africa by expanding access to breast and cervical cancer screening and improving the quality of treatment.
Many efforts have been directed to empower the African economy as well. Recent studies have shown high levels of international agreement that empowering African economies benefits not only Africa, but also the global economy – enriching the people of emerging markets and ensuring sustainable sources of goods, services and employment for a growing workforce.
Baker McKenzie, for example, has played a part in a number of global sustainability initiatives in 63 offices across 47 countries. Several of their programs have aimed to tackle issues such as population displacement through advocacy, pro bono activities and support of other organizations dedicated to a wide range of sustainability issues.
These firms represent only a small portion of the black lawyers who are working for the greater good both locally and internationally, as well. More and more black law firms are establishing or becoming part of international initiatives and projects, helping black professionals make a seemingly large impact for their size and economic influence.
Promoting Black-Owned Businesses in Law
As we consider the impact of top black-owned law firms on the legal industry, it is important to recognize how they encourage a new generation of black entrepreneurs in the field. Black-owned law firms not only provide employment opportunities, but they also set a precedent that empowers aspiring black lawyers to become their own bosses and create their own mark in the legal world.
Initiatives have been put in place to promote black entrepreneurship in the legal industry and improve diversity in the profession. For instance, the American Bar Association established The Commission on Racial and Ethnic Diversity in the Profession to look for innovative means to increase the representation of minorities in the bar , including support for start-up law firms owned by minorities or those with diverse ownership. This includes helping potential entrepreneurs secure affordable office space and financial backing. Additionally, the Minority Corporate Counsel Association has expanded its Focusing Forward initiative in order to connect the next generation of black lawyers with established law firms that will help them launch and grow their own successful practices.
As top black-owned firms continue to demonstrate excellence in legal practice, they act as role models and sources of inspiration for the next generation. By engaging with the community and providing resources for success, they continue to pave the way for others.
Obstacles Encountered by Black-Owned Law Firms
Despite their invaluable contributions to the legal profession, Black-owned firms face unique challenges that can impede their growth and success. These include access to resources, client base expansion and industry recognition. The legal market is increasingly competitive, and for law firms all over the country, access to resources is crucial. Many Black-owned law firms, however, struggle to secure the same level of industry partnerships, sponsorships or sponsorship opportunities as larger competition. As a result, they may lack cutting-edge legal technology, continued education opportunities or have limited access to networking events or legal tech software. The absence of these resources can hinder their growth and ability to attract new clients.
According to the American Lawyer, in 2017, just 4 percent of firm partners were minority women, while only 2 percent were minority men. The challenge in expanding client bases for Black-owned firms lies in gaining recognition in an industry that has struggled to open doors for people of color. Securing equal access to high-profile cases and a diverse clientele continues to be an issue. If you’re a minority firm, you’re more likely to get referred work from minority-run businesses and organizations, meaning your opportunities are often limited. Name recognition has been an issue, and larger firms have more resources to dedicate to firm branding, which makes it harder for Black-owned firms to expand their visibility. Through strategic marketing efforts, like strategic legal SEO, Black-owned firms can take ownership of their online reputation, but it still takes time, effort and resources to build your brand awareness. With that said – many Black-owned firms have built a solid foundation with a loyal set of clients. In fact, a recent study showed that minority-owned law firms retained 12% more clients than non-minority firms. This statistic just goes to show that minority-owned law firms are incredibly successful and should be recognized as such.
Future Prospects for Black-Owned Law Firms
As we look to the future, black-owned law firms are poised to play an even more pivotal role in the legal industry. The push for increased diversity and inclusivity in the legal profession is likely to continue, driven by both client demand and societal pressure. This may lead to an increase in opportunities for black-owned law firms, particularly those focusing on criminal defense, civil rights, and employment discrimination.
Increased public awareness about issues affecting the black community may also result in more clients seeking out black-owned law firms for their legal needs. As more individuals come to recognize the systemic inequalities and injustices present in the legal system , black-owned firms may see an uptick in clients seeking representation to challenge these injustices.
The rise of technology and access to information may also work to the advantage of black-owned law firms. Online platforms, social media, and legal technology can enhance outreach and marketing efforts. By leveraging new technologies and tools for case management, client communication, and virtual collaboration, black-owned law firms may be better positioned compete with larger firms and expand their client base.
As the movement for equitable opportunities and fair treatment continues, top black-owned law firms are setting examples to other lawyers. As they continue to make an impact in their communities the future for these firms will not only be bright, but will be a shining beacon of why more diversity is needed.
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