The 2026 NJSBA Diversity Summit: Power, Justice and Accountability
Jun
25
9:00 AM09:00

The 2026 NJSBA Diversity Summit: Power, Justice and Accountability

This timely program will bring together members of the legal community for a daylong examination of power, justice, accountability, civil rights and diversity, equity and inclusion. Sessions will address the state’s role in civil rights investigations and offer practical insight for legal professionals navigating power structures within law firms, agencies, corporations and public institutions.

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2026 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition
May
9
9:00 AM09:00

2026 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition

The Garden State Bar Association and the Association of Black Women Lawyers of New Jersey are proud to host the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at CSG.

The Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition is a signature program of the National Bar Association that provides high school students with an opportunity to develop and showcase their written and oral advocacy skills. Through this program, students engage with timely issues of justice, equity, civil rights, and public policy through the lens of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s vision of the “Beloved Community.”

For this year’s competition, students will submit written essays and deliver oral presentations addressing what Dr. King’s vision of justice, empathy, and human dignity might teach us about current immigration policies, ICE enforcement, and the impact of those policies on families and communities.

The competition will include both written and oral advocacy components. Judges will review and score the students’ essays in advance of the event. On the day of the competition, students will present their oral advocacy presentations before a distinguished panel of judges, and the written and oral scores will be combined to determine the final results.

This year’s judging panel will include:

Retired Judge Alberto Rivas, J.S.C.
Judge Sybil Elias, Municipal Court Judge
Judge L. Grace Spencer, Superior Court of New Jersey

The first-place winner of the regional competition will advance to represent the Garden State Bar Association and the Association of Black Women Lawyers of New Jersey at the National Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition in Nashville, Tennessee.

Special thanks to CSG for sponsoring and hosting this year’s competition, and to Zainab Awelenje, GSBA MLK Drum Major for Justice Competition Chair, and Jason Holt, Partner at CSG and NBA Region III Chair, for their leadership and work in planning this important event.

The GSBA and ABWLNJ are proud to continue supporting programs that expose students to the legal profession, strengthen advocacy skills, and encourage the next generation of leaders, advocates, and changemakers.

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4th Annual Black, Barred, and Beautiful Brunch
May
2
12:00 PM12:00

4th Annual Black, Barred, and Beautiful Brunch

The Garden State Bar Association and the Association of Black Women Lawyers of New Jersey invite you to the 4th Annual Black, Barred, and Beautiful Brunch—a dynamic celebration of connection, culture, and community. Join legal professionals from across the state for an afternoon of networking, fellowship, and inspiration in an elegant and welcoming setting.

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Business Generation For Litigators
Apr
23
5:30 PM17:30

Business Generation For Litigators

This panel will provide insight on how to generate business, the metrics that in-house counsel use when hiring firms, etc.

This panel will feature a mix of partners and in-house counsel that would provide insight, inter alia, on how to generate business, the metrics that in-house counsel use when hiring firms, etc.

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GSBA 5th Annual Pathways to ADR Program
Apr
7
5:00 PM17:00

GSBA 5th Annual Pathways to ADR Program

Join the GSBA for its 5th Annual Pathways to ADR Program

Join the Garden State Bar Association (GSBA) for its 5th Annual Pathways to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) program—an engaging and informative panel designed for attorneys and law students interested in exploring careers and opportunities in ADR.This dynamic discussion will provide insight into the evolving field of dispute resolution, including mediation, arbitration, workplace investigations and fact-finding. Our distinguished panel of neutrals will share their professional journeys, practical guidance, and perspectives on building a successful career in ADR.

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Women’s History Month Program: Mary McLeod Bethune and Black Women’s Activism
Mar
21
11:00 AM11:00

Women’s History Month Program: Mary McLeod Bethune and Black Women’s Activism

Event Details

Program: Mary McLeod Bethune & Black Women’s Activism
Presenter: Deborah Tulani Salahu-Din, Co-Curator, Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Format: Zoom

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81020061041?pwd=Qf0K6VG4vep0gUMxBwT8htxUA8F6mw.1

Meeting ID: 810 2006 1041
Passcode: 902827

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GSBA 6th Annual Corporate Counsel Forum
Mar
10
2:30 PM14:30

GSBA 6th Annual Corporate Counsel Forum

Join the Garden State Bar Association for our 6th Annual Corporate Counsel Forum, a dynamic in-person event designed for in-house counsel, private practitioners, and legal professionals focused on leadership, career strategy, and evolving issues in corporate law. Attendees will gain valuable insights from panel discussions featuring experienced attorneys and corporate legal leaders on best practices, professional growth, and navigating today’s legal landscape. The program also provides excellent networking opportunities with peers from across New Jersey’s legal community.

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MIPS/GSBA Black History Month Program
Feb
26
6:00 PM18:00

MIPS/GSBA Black History Month Program

The Garden State Bar Association is proud to serve as a co-sponsor of MIPS Presents: 2026 Black History Month Celebration, an evening dedicated to honoring the legacy, impact, and continued contributions of Black leaders within the legal profession and beyond.

This special program will bring together attorneys, judges, public officials, and community leaders for an engaging and meaningful celebration of Black history, culture, and excellence. Attendees can expect thoughtful programming, reflection on past and present achievements, and discussion centered on advancing equity, inclusion, and leadership within our profession.

GSBA is honored to partner with MIPS in commemorating Black History Month and reinforcing our shared commitment to uplifting diverse voices and fostering meaningful collaboration across the legal community.

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Networking Meet & Greet with New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport
Feb
26
5:30 PM17:30

Networking Meet & Greet with New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport

  • Social Profit Center Suite 201 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Garden State Bar Association is proud to join LaRuelist Cafe for an invitation-only Networking Meet & Greet with New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM at the Social Profit Center, Suite 201, 1 N. Johnston Avenue, Hamilton, New Jersey.

This intimate gathering will provide an important opportunity for members of New Jersey’s legal, civic, and community leadership communities to engage in meaningful dialogue with Attorney General Davenport. The event is designed to foster candid conversation, strengthen relationships, and create space for discussion around issues affecting communities throughout New Jersey.

Attorney General Davenport’s leadership comes at a critical moment for the state. Her role carries significant responsibility in advancing justice, public safety, civil rights, and public trust. Direct engagement between the Attorney General’s Office and affinity bar associations, community leaders, and legal professionals is essential to ensuring that New Jersey’s justice system continues to serve all residents fairly and effectively.

The GSBA represents Black legal professionals and leaders serving communities across New Jersey. Participation in this event reflects the GSBA’s continued commitment to access, dialogue, partnership, and advocacy on behalf of the communities we serve.

The event will be co-hosted by Jeannine LaRue and Past GSBA President Pamela Miller, with Attorney General Jennifer Davenport serving as special guest.

The GSBA looks forward to participating in this important conversation and to continued engagement with Attorney General Davenport and her team.

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Pre-Valentine’s Day Affinity Bar Karaoke & Networking Event
Feb
12
6:00 PM18:00

Pre-Valentine’s Day Affinity Bar Karaoke & Networking Event

Join GSBA, NJSBA YLD, and ABWL-NJ for a fun and festive Pre-Valentine’s Day Karaoke & Networking Night on February 12, 2026, from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM at Gabriele’s Bar and Grill in Piscataway. Connect with members of New Jersey’s affinity bar associations, enjoy karaoke, and build community—because the best connections start with a mic! Admission includes a buffet and two drink tickets.

We will also be accepting donations on behalf of JON-J to support victims of Hurricane Melissa. Guests are welcome.

Tickets: $30 with donation / $40 regular admission

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GSBA Co-Sponsors the ABA’s 2026 Women in Litigation CLE Conference
Feb
11
to Feb 13

GSBA Co-Sponsors the ABA’s 2026 Women in Litigation CLE Conference

Launch & Lead: Empowering Women Litigators to Lead with Purpose
📅 February 11–13, 2026
📍 The Westin Jersey City Newport – Jersey City, NJ
🔗 Register Here: https://events.americanbar.org/event/0588DB43-1D1D-438D-82EC-15F1BD0DCF1A/regProcessStep1

The Garden State Bar Association is proud to serve as a co-sponsor of the American Bar Association Litigation Section’s 2026 Women in Litigation CLE Conference, a premier national gathering dedicated to empowering women litigators and advancing leadership across the legal profession.

This year’s theme—Launch & Lead: Empowering Women Litigators to Lead with Purpose—will bring together attorneys, judges, corporate counsel, academics, and litigation leaders from across the country for three days of high-impact programming, professional development, and community building.
brochure

Conference Highlights

Keynotes & Plenaries featuring leaders shaping the future of litigation, including sessions on women general counsels, Supreme Court advocacy, AI and innovation, and presidential perspectives on leadership.
Interactive Breakout Sessions focused on oral advocacy, ADR practice, career strategy, executive coaching, and navigating leadership roles in rapidly evolving legal environments.
Networking Opportunities including breakfasts, a welcome reception, networking dine-arounds, and a ticketed reception and dinner.
CLE Credit available, including specialty credits in elimination of bias and wellness.
(See detailed programming in conference brochure.) brochure

Why You Should Attend

This conference offers an invaluable space for women litigators and allies to gain practical insight, strengthen leadership skills, expand professional networks, and engage with cutting-edge developments in the legal field. Topics range from trial advocacy and corporate leadership to wellness, innovation, and building sustainable legal careers.

As co-sponsors, the GSBA encourages our members—and especially our women litigators, young lawyers, and law students—to attend this powerful, career-advancing experience.

Registration

Early bird discounts are available until January 20, 2026.
Secure your place today:
🔗 Register Now: https://events.americanbar.org/event/0588DB43-1D1D-438D-82EC-15F1BD0DCF1A/regProcessStep1

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GSBA/MSP/NJSBA Inclusive Excellence Summit: Justice & Leadership Boot Camp
Feb
7
9:30 AM09:30

GSBA/MSP/NJSBA Inclusive Excellence Summit: Justice & Leadership Boot Camp

The Inclusive Excellence Law Student Summit: Justice & Leadership Boot Camp brings together law students, attorneys, judges, and affinity bar leaders from across New Jersey for a day of mentorship, professional development, and community building. Hosted by the Garden State Bar Association at the New Jersey Law Center, the Summit focuses on preparing the next generation of lawyers to lead with purpose while navigating the evolving legal profession.

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GSBA 2025 Black Professionals Holiday Party & Toy Drive
Dec
12
6:00 PM18:00

GSBA 2025 Black Professionals Holiday Party & Toy Drive

Celebrate the season with the Garden State Bar Association at our 2025 Black Professionals Holiday Party & Toy Drive! Join us on Friday, December 12 at 6:00 PM for an evening of fellowship, music, and community impact at Souder Law Group in Newark. Guests who bring a new, unwrapped toy will receive a special discounted admission rate. We’re proud to have Greenbaum Rowe Smith & Davis LLP as this year’s Premier Sponsor and Souder Law Group as our Host Sponsor. Come enjoy good company while supporting families in need this holiday season.

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Minority Student Program - Lift as Climb Convention
Dec
1
11:00 AM11:00

Minority Student Program - Lift as Climb Convention

  • Rutgers Law School - 1st Floor Atrium (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Garden State Bar Association (GSBA) is proud to co-sponsor the 2025 Lift As We Climb Convention on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Rutgers Law School in Newark. This year’s theme, “Inclusive Excellence & Belonging + Techno Futurism in the Law,” will explore how innovation and technology are shaping the future of equity and access in the legal profession. Join us for panels, networking, professional development, and mentorship opportunities with law students and practitioners from across New Jersey.

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GSBA Community Service Event: Supporting the Community Food Bank of New Jersey
Nov
22
11:30 AM11:30

GSBA Community Service Event: Supporting the Community Food Bank of New Jersey

GSBA is proud to partner with the Community Food Bank of New Jersey to support families affected by the recent loss of SNAP benefits. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, November 22 from 11:30 AM–1:30 PM to help prepare and sort food for distribution. Join us in making a meaningful impact. Register at https://vhub.at/gardenstatebarassociation.

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Staying Well While Climbing High – A Wellness Conversation for Legal Professionals
Nov
22
10:00 AM10:00

Staying Well While Climbing High – A Wellness Conversation for Legal Professionals

Join GSBA and ABWL for “Staying Well While Climbing High,” a virtual panel on achieving professional excellence while maintaining wellness. Featuring judges and past presidents of ABWL, with GSBA’s Anias Holland-Rudd, Esq. as a panelist. An inspiring conversation on balance, resilience, and thriving in the legal profession.

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GSBA League of Municipalities Mixer
Nov
19
5:00 PM17:00

GSBA League of Municipalities Mixer

  • Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Garden State Bar Association (GSBA) and the Association of Black Women Lawyers of New Jersey (ABWL-NJ) for our annual League of Municipalities Mixer on Tuesday, November 19, 2025, at the Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel.
This year’s theme, “50 Years of Advocacy and Action,” celebrates a half-century of leadership and impact by New Jersey’s Black legal community. Connect with attorneys, judges, public officials, and community leaders from across the state during this dynamic networking reception held alongside the League of Municipalities Conference.

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By Law & Legacy: Honoring New Jersey’s Black Legal Champions
Nov
18
6:00 PM18:00

By Law & Legacy: Honoring New Jersey’s Black Legal Champions

The Garden State Bar Association will be honored, alongside the Association of Black Women Lawyers of New Jersey, at the United Black Agenda’s By Law & Legacy: Honoring New Jersey’s Black Legal Champions. The event will celebrate the contributions of Black legal trailblazers and recognized GSBA’s enduring commitment to advancing inclusion, equity, and justice in the legal profession.

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The Arc of Justice: A Fireside Chat with GSBA Founder Junius Williams
Nov
11
6:00 PM18:00

The Arc of Justice: A Fireside Chat with GSBA Founder Junius Williams

Join the Garden State Bar Association (GSBA) and The Black Massacre Project for The Arc of Justice: A Fireside Chat with GSBA Founder Junius Williams on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, from 6:00–8:00 PM at the SPH Venue in Piscataway, NJ.

This special conversation with attorney, author, and civil rights leader Junius Williams will explore the legacy of advocacy, the founding of GSBA, and the ongoing pursuit of justice 50 years later.

Come be part of this powerful reflection on leadership, legacy, and the continued arc toward justice.

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MSP Fall Forum
Nov
5
6:00 PM18:00

MSP Fall Forum

  • Rutgers Law School - Camden (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Garden State Bar Association participated in the MSP Fall Forum, hosted by Rutgers Law School’s Minority Student Program. GSBA Southern Regional Director Temperance Williamson represented the Association, joining legal leaders from across New Jersey and Pennsylvania for an evening of mentorship and connection with MSP Scholars. Special thanks to Assistant Dean Rhasheda Douglas, a GSBA member, for organizing this impactful event that continues to advance diversity, inclusion, and leadership within the legal profession.

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GSBA 6th Annual Labor & Employment Law Symposium
Nov
5
5:00 PM17:00

GSBA 6th Annual Labor & Employment Law Symposium

Join the Garden State Bar Association (GSBA) for its 6th Annual Labor & Employment Symposium, a premier gathering for attorneys, HR professionals, and public‐sector counsel focusing on the most pressing workplace issues today. Connect with industry leaders, deepen your expertise in evolving employment law trends, and build valuable relationships across the New Jersey legal and business communities.

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GSBA @ CBC: New Jersey Reception Honoring Our Congressional Leaders
Sep
25
5:00 PM17:00

GSBA @ CBC: New Jersey Reception Honoring Our Congressional Leaders

Join us as we honor Senator Cory Booker, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, Congresswoman LaMonica McIver, and Congressman Herb Conaway. GSBA is proud to co-sponsor this signature CBC event.

We hope to see you there as we continue to amplify our presence, build community, and represent New Jersey’s Black legal professionals on the national stage!

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