DEI

The State Bar of California announced today a new round of applications for its DEI Leadership Seal program, which recognizes legal employers that commit to and implement research-driven actions that further workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

The seals (Gold, Silver, and Bronze) were first launched in January 2023 and are available to all employers with California-licensed attorneys, including law firms of all sizes, in-house legal departments, legal academia, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies with attorney staff. Applications are due September 23, 2025. 

“The State Bar’s DEI Leadership Seal program affirms our commitment to advancing equity across California’s legal profession,” said Erika Doherty, State Bar Interim Executive Director. “We are proud to recognize legal employers who are taking the steps needed to create more inclusive workplaces. As we open this new round of applications, we invite organizations of all types and sizes that employ California attorneys to join our growing community of seal recipients and help lead the way toward lasting, systemic change.” 

Having a diverse legal profession positively impacts the administration of justice, ensures fairness, and promotes the rule of law. A core component of the State Bar’s mission is to promote diversity and inclusion in the legal system and legal profession. Per Business and Professions Code Section 6001.3, the State Bar maintains “its commitment to and support of effective policies and activities to enhance access, fairness, and diversity in the legal profession and the elimination of bias in the practice of law.” 

As part of the program, born out of the 2022 Diversity Report Card, organizations that commit to at least 5 of the 10 Calls to Action highlighted on the DEI Leadership Seal page are eligible to be recognized as participating employers. The first two action items are mandatory. Those that meet five of the items will receive a Bronze DEI Leadership Seal; those with seven, Silver; and those with nine, Gold. Once a legal employer applies, they have one year to attain DEI Leadership Seal status. There are currently 72 DEI Leadership Seal recipients and 27 committed to earning a seal. After a third-party review, the State Bar earned its DEI Leadership Gold Seal in 2024. 

Note: The State Bar does not require or encourage any DEI Leadership Seal applicant or participant to make any employment decisions based in whole or in part on any individual’s race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, color, ethnicity, or national origin, or to otherwise treat any individual differently on these bases. DEI Leadership Seal applicants or participants should consult legal counsel with questions concerning their compliance with applicable law. 

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The State Bar of California's mission is to protect the public and includes the primary functions of licensing, regulation and discipline of attorneys; the advancement of the ethical and competent practice of law; and support of efforts for greater access to, and inclusion in, the legal system.