Akron-Canton Barristers Association is an affinity bar association and legal organization comprising approximately 125 African American attorneys and judges serving Summit and Stark counties. Founded in 1948 as the Akron Barristers Club by fourteen Black male lawyers dedicated to justice and civil rights, the association has a distinguished history of advocacy and community leadership spanning nearly 75 years.
The organization is committed to promoting equality, increasing diversity in the legal profession, and serving the public interest through education, mentorship, and advocacy. It focuses on fostering professional development, legal scholarship, and community involvement while supporting the African American community and advocating for social and equal justice. As an affiliate chapter of the National Bar Association, it connects members to a broader network of legal professionals.
Services Offered
- Legal services
- Legal educational seminars for attorneys
- Legal fairs and mock trials for the community
- Scholarships and employment opportunities for law students
- Mentorship for law students
- Advocacy for increasing African American representation in law schools, judiciary, government, corporate offices, and law firms
- Community engagement and civil rights initiatives
- Networking opportunities for African American legal professionals
The association primarily serves Summit and Stark counties in Ohio and operates as a vital resource for African American legal professionals and the broader community, emphasizing justice, equity, and professional excellence.
