MABL was founded in September 1995. During its relatively short but storied history, MABL members have served in several legal capacities ranging from service on the Minnesota Supreme Court, Chief Judge of the Minnesota Court of Appeals, Chief Judge of the Hennepin County Family Court, federal and state court judges, administrative law judges, magistrates, referees, federal, state, county, and city prosecutors and U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota.

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MABL members are also well represented throughout Minnesota in private practice, with some members comprising the largest minority-controlled law firm in the Midwest. Members of the organization have been honored as "Up and Coming" attorneys in Minnesota by Minnesota's leading periodical devoted exclusively to lawyers; others have been identified as "Super Lawyers" and "Rising Stars" by other leading publications, as well. In addition, various judges have been recognized for their judicial expertise, their commitment and dedication to service, among other things.

 

The continuing need to address issues encountered by Black attorneys, other attorneys of color, and minority communities does not disappear. Accordingly, included among the many purposes of MABL are the steadfast convictions of promoting and supporting the professional development of Black lawyers in Minnesota, the education of Black students desiring to enter the legal profession, and the education of Black citizens regarding issues pertaining to the American judicial system.