The State Bar advances diversity and inclusion in the legal profession by focusing in key areas of influence, specifically pipeline into the legal profession, retention and career advancement, and judicial diversity. The State Bar adopted as its diversity definition the reporting categories in Government Code section 12011.5(n): race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, and veteran status.
The State Bar's work to promote diversity includes these efforts:
To fulfill its mission of supporting "greater access to, and inclusion in, the legal system," the State Bar began collecting data from licensees via a voluntary survey accessible through the "My State Bar Profile." The State Bar is seeking more accurate and comprehensive information about attorneys licensed in California
The survey data will allow the Bar to analyze a rich dataset representing one of the largest and most diverse State Bars in the nation. This data will help understand the changes in the attorney population, career trajectories, and experiences in the legal professions in a variety of fields. This information will also help set benchmarks for progress and guide areas of opportunities for the Bar's Diversity and Inclusion priorities.
If you have questions regarding the collection or use of this data, contact surveydata@calbar.ca.gov or visit MSBP Survey Frequently Asked Questions.
The State Bar's Council on Access and Fairness is comprised of lawyers, judges and members of the public advising the State Bar Board of Trustees and others on ways to advance strategies and goals for diversity.
The Commission on Judicial Nominees Evaluation compiles a yearly demographics report on the candidates it has reviewed for appointment by the governor.
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