Black IP Lawyers Reveal Struggles with Systemic Racism

According to a 2019 American Bar Associate study, only 5% of lawyers are African American. Black lawyers, both in-house and private practice, have struggled to be seen in the legal industry. In an article for Managing Intellectual Property, Finnegan partner Mareesa Frederick discusses what firms and in-house counsel can do to retain black lawyers, nurture their careers, and ensure they are offered the same opportunities as their white counterparts.

Mareesa said, “Black junior associates would greatly benefit from being sponsored and mentored by senior associates and partners. This would help them navigate the ups and downs of working at a law firm, which at times can be stressful. If they are given that support early on, nurtured and guided on what to expect, it will help improve retention.”

She also made suggestions for what in-house counsel can do to provide more opportunities for black lawyers. “In-house counsel can help improve diversity by demanding law firms staff their matters with diverse teams and give diverse attorneys meaningful roles. Many companies already require this. In-house counsel should serve as mentors for young black law firm lawyers to serve as a resource and offer different perspectives on their legal career.”

Mareesa added, “Building a ‘book of business’ is also an area that black lawyers may need support with to ensure they are getting the opportunity to connect and build relationships with in-house attorneys.”

Read the full article here.