In honor of Women’s History Month, OMLO recognizes the remarkable women who have transformed the American legal landscape through their courage and determination.
Since Arabella Mansfield first broke barriers in 1869 as the first woman admitted to the bar, women lawyers have fought for justice and equality across our nation. Their stories inspire us daily.
Arabella Mansfield shattered convention as the first woman admitted to practice law in America. By challenging the male-only status quo, she opened a door that would never close again.
Charlotte E. Ray, facing both racial and gender discrimination, became the first African American woman lawyer. Her determination in the face of overwhelming odds changed the course of legal history.
Belva Ann Lockwood broke new ground as the first woman to argue before the Supreme Court. Not content with legal barriers alone, she twice ran for President and secured female attorneys the right to practice in federal courts.
Esther Morris took her place in history as America’s first female judge, proving women belonged on the bench just as much as in the courtroom.
Florence Allen continued pushing boundaries as the first woman on a state supreme court and later, the first on a federal appellate court. Her judicial career showed that women could excel at the highest levels of legal interpretation.
Genevieve Cline secured her place in history when President Coolidge appointed her as the first woman to the federal bench, opening yet another door for future generations.
Sandra Day O’Connor made history as the first woman on the Supreme Court, where her pragmatic approach and measured wisdom influenced American law for nearly a quarter century.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the “Notorious RBG,” transformed gender equality as both an advocate and justice. Her brilliant legal mind and determination created opportunities for countless women who followed in her footsteps.
At OMLO, we’re proud that this legacy lives on through our own outstanding female partners: Susie Altamirano, Leslie Anne Burnet, Christine K. Hsu, Paloma Perez-McEvoy, and Stephanie Vasquez. And we’re grateful for all the women at our firm whose hard work and talent make us who we are.
As a minority-owned firm with deep community roots, OMLO honors these pioneering women lawyers and the lasting impact of their courage. We’re committed to creating a workplace where women attorneys can build on their legacy and reach new heights in our profession.