The Legacy​​​

Founded in 1981 and reincorporated in 2005, the Las Vegas Chapter of the National Bar Association (LVNBA) has grown from a visionary group of fourteen trailblazing attorneys and judges into a thriving, influential force within Nevada’s legal community.

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When the LVNBA was established, there were fewer than twenty African-American attorneys in the entire state of Nevada. Today, that number has increased to approximately 125–150, representing about 1% of the State Bar of Nevada’s membership. This growth reflects more than numbers—it represents progress, perseverance, and purpose.

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LVNBA members today shape the legal landscape across every corner of the profession: they own and lead firms, serve as partners and associates in firms of every size, teach and mentor the next generation as professors and educators, advocate for justice as prosecutors and public defenders, craft laws in the Nevada Legislature, preside over cases from the bench, and represent clients and causes at every level of government—from the city to the U.S. Department of Justice.

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The LVNBA proudly serves as a dynamic affiliate of the National Bar Association, founded in 1925 when fewer than 1,000 African-American lawyers practiced nationwide. What began as a courageous coalition of less than 120 members has become the oldest and largest network of predominantly African-American attorneys, judges, law professors, and legal professionals in the United States. Over the past century, the National Bar Association has expanded its reach and influence, championing equality, access, and excellence in the law.

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As part of this historic and powerful legacy, the LVNBA connects Nevada’s legal professionals to a national platform of advocacy, mentorship, and professional development—advancing justice, elevating leadership, and empowering the next generation of legal trailblazers.​​

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The Mission​

 

The six pillars of the LVNBA's Mission are to:

1. Promote education, professionalism, and the pursuit of equal opportunity and justice for all;​

2. Advance the science of jurisprudence through education, scholarly analysis and commentary, and professional leadership and development;

3. Improve the administration of justice, preserve the independence of the judiciary, and uphold the honor and integrity of the legal profession;

4. Promote social dialogue among the members of the bar.​

5. Advance policy that improves health care, economic and education opportunities, and use of the franchise guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States; and

6. Protect civil and political rights of the citizens and residents of the United States.