About
Change & make better world
Our Division
The Washington Bar Association, one of the first African American Bar associations in the country, was formed in 1925 by such legal luminaries as Charles Hamilton Houston, George E.C. Hayes, Ulysses Simpson Garnes, Isaiah Lisemby, Louis Rothchild Mehlinger, Charles E. Robinson, and J. Franklin Wilson. The WBA was created simultaneously with the National Bar Association and is an affiliate chapter of that organization. Like the NBA, the WBA is concerned with the advancement of jurisprudence, self benefit, group enhancement in a racially exclusive society and judicial system, and group protection.
The Young Lawyers Division was established in 1997 as a division of the Washington Bar Association. WBA members qualify for YLD status if they are 36 years of age or younger, or have been licensed to practice for five years or less, regardless of age. This group of approximately 200 young attorneys practicing in the Washington metropolitan area provides networking and professional development opportunities for its members and encourages community awareness and a commitment to service and civil rights.
YLD Traditions. In addition to its professional and community endeavors, YLD provides many opportunities to its members for developing a social network through hosting happy hours, retreats and professional events with law firms and other bar associations. YLD is also committed to mentoring law students through our bar mentorship program for 3Ls and our annual career fair for law students.
The Professional Development Committee
Establishes programs, seminars, and other activities that will develop and improve professional skills of members.
The Networking & Social Engagement Committee
Provides an opportunity for members to interact with other members of the Division, and with other professional organizations.
Continue reading “The Networking & Social Engagement Committee”
The Community Service Committee
Develops and maintain relations with the local community through programs and other activities, including “Feed the Hood” partnerships, and the DC BAR Pro Bono Advice & Referral Clinic.
The Social Justice Committee
Coordinates WBA YLD activities to address injustices and disparities in the District, and provide knowledge and information to residents of the District while providing tools to members of the WBA YLD on how to best address injustices.
The Raising the Bar Initiative
Establishes an annual mentorship program to pair licensed attorneys with prospective bar exam takers.
Committee on Legislative Affairs in the District of Columbia (CLAD)
Sponsors activities to establish a political base, to maintain awareness of the political activities in the District and to provide opportunities for the community to participate in the political process.