Paving the Way: Notable "First" Females in American Law

In honor of Women’s History Month, we have taken some time to reflect on the progress that has been made towards gender equality in the judicial system. These trailblazers are just a few of the women who have broken down discriminatory barriers.

1869: Arabella Mansfield became the first female lawyer in the United States when she was admitted to the Iowa Bar.

1870: Ada Kepley was the first female law school graduate. She attended the Chicago University Law School, now known as Northwestern University School of Law.

1872: Charlotte E. Ray became the first African American female lawyer in the United States.

Mary Belle Grossman and Mary Florence Lathrop — 1918: Mary Belle Grossman (left) and Mary Florence Lathrop (right) were the first female lawyers admitted to the American Bar Association.

1981: Sandra Day O’Connor became the first female justice of the United States Supreme Court.

Though much progress has been made, we know we must continue to strive for equality in the courtroom. The attorneys at ReidGoodwin are proud to lobby at the Virginia General Assembly and participate in organizations that work towards an equal justice system.

Paving the Way: Notable “First” Females in American Law

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