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Christina T. Hall, Esq. is the President of the Westchester Black Bar Association.
As President of the Westchester Black Bar Association (WBBA) formerly known as the Association of Black Lawyers of Westchester County as mentioned in your question, I am especially proud of the work we have done to bring Black attorneys, judges, law students, and members of our community together. Through our programs, networking opportunities, community events, and mentorship, we are creating spaces where current and future attorneys can build meaningful professional relationships and support one another.
One of my priorities as President has been making sure that WBBA continues to be visible and accessible to the next generation of attorneys. I believe it is important for young people who are considering the legal profession to see Black attorneys and judges succeeding, leading, and giving back to their communities. When students can see themselves represented in the profession, it makes their own goals feel attainable.
My advice is to believe that you belong in this profession before anyone else gives you permission to believe it. Do not allow statistics, rejection, financial challenges, or a lack of representation to determine what you believe you can accomplish.
I also encourage students to seek out mentors and organizations like the Westchester Black Bar Association. Surround yourself with attorneys and other professionals who are willing to share their experiences, answer questions, and help guide you. Do not be afraid to introduce yourself, ask for advice, or seek opportunities.
There is no single path to becoming an attorney. Your background and your experiences are part of what you bring to the profession, and the legal community benefits from having attorneys with different perspectives and life experiences.
There are still barriers, including the financial cost of legal education, limited access to professional networks and mentorship, and a lack of representation in certain areas of the profession. Aspiring Black lawyers may also find themselves in classrooms, law firms, courtrooms, or other professional settings where very few people look like them.
This is one of the reasons organizations like the Westchester Black Bar Association remain so important. We have a responsibility not only to encourage Black students to pursue careers in law, but also to support them once they begin that journey. Providing mentorship, professional connections, guidance, and opportunities can make a meaningful difference in helping the next generation enter and succeed in the profession.
Aspiring law students should focus on becoming strong writers, critical thinkers, effective communicators, and good listeners. They should also begin developing discipline, professionalism, time-management skills, confidence, and the ability to accept constructive criticism.
I strongly encourage students to get practical exposure to the legal profession before applying to law school. Intern at a law office, courthouse, government agency, nonprofit organization, or another legal setting. Attend court proceedings when possible and speak with attorneys who practice in different areas of law. The more exposure you have, the better you will understand both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with becoming an attorney.
Most importantly, understand your reason for pursuing a legal career. Law school and the practice of law require commitment and perseverance. Having a strong sense of purpose will help you remain focused through the challenges. We need attorneys who are not only capable and prepared, but who also have integrity, compassion, resilience, and a commitment to serving their communities.
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