Every March, Women’s History Month offers an opportunity to recognize the individuals who helped shape the institutions that guide American life today.
In the past, women were not allowed to practice law in courtrooms, attend law schools, or join bar associations. However, a committed group of trailblazers overcame these obstacles, paving the way for future generations of female lawyers and judges.
Their accomplishments increased access to justice and changed the American legal system. In the US today, 41% of attorneys are women. Even though it took over a century to make that progress, it started with a few revolutionary “firsts” that fundamentally altered the field.
The First Woman Lawyer in the United States
Arabella Mansfield became the first woman admitted to the practice of law in the United States in 1869. Mansfield scored highly on the Iowa bar exam, but only “white males” were permitted to practice at the time due to state legislation.
The law was soon changed to permit women to enter the field after her successful application compelled the Iowa courts to reevaluate the statute. Mansfield went on to become a professor of law and an advocate for women’s education.
Her admission came at a time when women faced enormous barriers in higher education. By the end of the 19th century, only 200 women nationwide were enrolled in law schools.
More Women Who Jumped Over Legal Hurdles
Myra Bradwell was one of the most well-known early advocates, having passed the Illinois bar exam in 1869. Unfortunately, her marriage prevented her from being admitted by the state Supreme Court. The courts argued that a married woman could not sign contracts without her husband’s consent, and therefore couldn’t possibly work in this profession.
Bradwell filed an appeal with the US Supreme Court, but the Court upheld the decision. Her case brought attention to the systemic obstacles women faced in the field, even though she was eventually admitted to the Illinois bar years later.
Belva Ann Lockwood was another woman who relentlessly pursued legislation that would have permitted women to present arguments before the Supreme Court. In 1879, Congress passed a law permitting qualified women attorneys to practice before the Court, and Lockwood became the first woman to do so.
Women Also Had to Battle Racial Discrimination
Women nationwide fought against the racial barriers that shaped early American law, just as Black legal pioneers in North Carolina broke down barriers and increased access to justice.
Charlotte E. Ray made history by graduating from Howard University School of Law and being admitted to the District of Columbia bar in 1872. In addition to practicing commercial law, Ray represented clients before the District of Columbia Supreme Court.
Despite this achievement, racial and gender discrimination hindered her opportunities, even with her skill and education, and Ray eventually went back to teaching.
The First Woman on the U.S. Supreme Court
More than a century after Mansfield entered the legal profession, women reached another historic milestone when Sandra Day O’Connor was nominated by President Ronald Reagan for the Supreme Court, and then appointed in 1981.
Since O’Connor’s appointment, several other women have served on the Court, and today, women make up four of the nine Supreme Court justices.
Why We Celebrate Women’s History Month
During Women’s History Month, we honor the generations of women who challenged institutions and increased our access to opportunities. In the past, women had a difficult time getting into law school, practicing in courts, and sitting on the bench. Paying tribute to those who fought for those chances helps us appreciate how far the legal profession has come.
Progress has continued in recent decades, with women now making up more than half of US law school students.
Meaningful change often begins with individuals willing to challenge outdated systems and push the profession forward. Their legacy continues in the work of modern attorneys advocating for families and individuals during some of life’s most difficult moments.
If you are facing a family law issue, reach out to the attorneys at Woodruff Family Law Group. Our experienced team can help guide you on your legal rights and the steps you can take to protect your future and your family.