“`html
California Attorney Diversity Report Reveals Progress, Persistent Gaps
SACRAMENTO, CA – November 15, 2024 – A newly released report from the State Bar of California details the demographic composition of the stateS attorney population, highlighting incremental gains in diversity alongside ongoing disparities. the 2024 Diversity Report card, published today, provides a comprehensive snapshot of representation across race, ethnicity, gender, disability status, and veteran status within the legal profession.
The report reveals that as of January 1,2024,women comprise 37.8 percent of California attorneys, a slight increase from previous years. Representation of racial and ethnic minorities continues to grow, with 33.2 percent of attorneys identifying as belonging to a group other than White. Specifically, the report details the following representation percentages:
- Asian/Pacific Islander: 16.8 percent
- Hispanic/Latinx: 8.8 percent
- Black/african American: 4.4 percent
- American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.3 percent
- Two or More races: 3.0 percent
The report also addresses the representation of individuals with disabilities,finding that 25 percent of California’s adult population reports having a disability. Within the attorney population,8.1 percent identify as having a disability that limits activities and self-care, encompassing mobility issues, cognitive impairments, and vision/hearing impairments. This figure represents a significant area for potential improvement, given the higher prevalence of disability in the general population.
veterans are represented in the attorney population at 4.8 percent, mirroring their 4.1 percent representation within the broader California population. This suggests a relatively equitable level of veteran inclusion within the legal profession.
Understanding the Importance of Attorney Diversity
The state Bar of California began publishing annual demographic data in 2018, recognizing the critical need to track progress toward a more representative legal profession. A diverse attorney population is believed to enhance public trust in the legal system, improve access to justice for underserved communities, and foster a more innovative and effective legal landscape. The data collected informs policy decisions and initiatives aimed at increasing diversity and inclusion within law schools and the bar.
The report’s findings are particularly relevant in light of ongoing discussions surrounding equitable access to legal education and the challenges faced by underrepresented groups in navigating the bar exam and securing employment. Initiatives like the State Bar’s Diversity Pipeline Program, launched in 2022, aim to address these challenges by providing mentorship and support to aspiring attorneys from diverse backgrounds.The program, based in Los Angeles and San Francisco, has served over 500 students to date.
The State Bar emphasizes that ongoing monitoring and analysis of demographic data are essential for driving meaningful change and ensuring that the legal profession reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.
For more information, please read the full 2024 Diversity Report Card.
###
Follow the State bar online
LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagramand YouTube
The State Bar of California’s mission is to protect the public and includes the primary functions of licensing, regulation and discipline of attorneys; the advancement of the ethical and competent practice of law; and support of efforts
