Chicanx-Latinx Law Review

This Report addresses a significant paradox within the U.S. legal profession: While Latinas represent 9.4 percent of the nation’s population, they only account for approximately 3 percent of attorneys, with even fewer in leadership roles across the legal profession. Following the 2009 research findings of the Hispanic National Bar Association’s Latina Commission, this Report provides a comprehensive examination of Latina attorneys’ and law students’ statistical representation and growth over the past fifteen years. The positive trend of more Latinas entering law school provides a beacon of hope for increased representation of Latina attorneys in the future. Despite this progress, disparities persist. Latinas encounter lower acceptance rates into top-ranked law schools, wage gaps, and remain significantly underrepresented in top legal roles in law firms, corporate law offices, the judiciary, and legal academia. These findings highlight the need for heightened commitment and systemic reforms to improve Latinas’ equitable access to legal education and opportunities for career advancement in the legal field. Recommendations include equitable admissions and hiring practices, tailored career and leadership development programs, transparent compensation systems and appointment processes, continued advocacy, and enhanced data reporting and research efforts to monitor progress and identify obstacles. Since its inception in 2008, the HNBA Latina Commission has played a crucial role in furthering the career and leadership development of Latina law students and lawyers. Yet, overcoming persistent disparities demands greater dedication and a united approach from the broader legal community. By working together, we can transform the legal profession into one that accurately reflects and serves the diverse fabric of American society.