Paulette Brown, Esq.

After completing her education, Brown embarked on a multifaceted legal career that spanned private practice, corporate counsel roles, and judicial appointments. She worked as in-house counsel for several Fortune 500 companies, where she gained valuable experience in corporate law and governance. Brown also served as a municipal court judge, providing her with insight into the judiciary and the importance of fair legal processes.

In private practice, she became a partner at Locke Lord LLP, an international law firm. At Locke Lord, she specialized in labor and employment law and commercial litigation. Her work often involved complex cases that required a deep understanding of both the legal landscape and the human elements involved in employment disputes.

In 2015, Paulette Brown made history by becoming the 144th president of the American Bar Association, marking the first time an African-American woman held the position. During her tenure from 2015 to 2016, she focused on initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion within the legal profession. One of her signature programs was the “Diversity and Inclusion 360 Commission,” which sought to develop sustainable strategies to advance diversity in the legal field.

Under her leadership, the ABA also addressed issues related to implicit bias, mass incarceration, and the school-to-prison pipeline. Brown was instrumental in encouraging law firms and legal departments to adopt policies that fostered a more inclusive environment for lawyers of all backgrounds.

Beyond her role in the ABA, Brown has been actively involved in several other legal organizations. She served as president of the National Bar Association, the oldest and largest network of predominantly African-American attorneys and judges. Additionally, she is a fellow of the American Bar Foundation and a member of the American Law Institute.

Her leadership extends to various boards and committees, where she continues to influence policies and practices that shape the legal profession. Brown is also a frequent speaker at law schools, conferences, and seminars, where she shares her insights on ethics, diversity, and professional development.

Brown is deeply committed to community service and advocacy. She has worked with organizations that focus on providing legal assistance to underserved populations and has been a mentor to young lawyers and students aspiring to enter the legal field. Her efforts often center on dismantling systemic barriers that prevent equal access to justice.

She has also been involved in international initiatives, representing the ABA in discussions on global legal issues and human rights. Brown’s advocacy work emphasizes the importance of the rule of law and ethical practice in both domestic and international contexts.

An accomplished writer, Paulette Brown has authored numerous articles and papers on topics such as diversity in the legal profession, ethical obligations of lawyers, and strategies for eliminating bias. Her writings often provide practical guidance for legal practitioners seeking to navigate the complexities of modern law practice.

As a speaker, she is known for her engaging and insightful presentations. Brown has been invited to speak at prestigious events, including commencement ceremonies, legal conferences, and corporate gatherings, where she shares her experiences and encourages others to pursue excellence and advocate for positive change.

Paulette Brown’s career is marked by a steadfast dedication to improving the legal profession and making it more reflective of the society it serves. Her historic presidency of the ABA and her ongoing efforts have paved the way for greater inclusivity and have inspired a new generation of lawyers to continue the pursuit of justice and equality.

Her legacy is one of breaking barriers and setting new standards for what can be achieved through perseverance, skill, and a commitment to ethical practice. Brown remains an influential figure whose work continues to shape the legal landscape in the United States and beyond.