Women's Bar Association of Illinois
The Women’s Bar Association of Illinois, one of the oldest and largest bar associations in the state of Illinois, was first established in 1914 by nine women lawyers practicing in the Chicago Metropolitan area.
It was founded to promote the interests and welfare of women lawyers and also to aid in the enactment of legislation for the common good and in the administration of justice. Its activities have always been divided between burning controversial social and political issues and the practical need to help its members gain employment. The WBAI was one of the first minority bar associations to extend its membership to males.
Throughout the year, we host social, educational, and philanthropic events for our members that keep our purpose in mind. Ranging from new attorneys to those who are established in their careers, we encourage friendship and camaraderie among our members while promoting and protecting the interests and rights of women.
Learn more at wbaillinois.org
TWLIL 2025: Top Woman Legislator in Leadership Honoree - Senator Laura Fine
TWLIL 2025: Top Flexible Workplace Legal Employer Honoree - Hennessy & Roach, P.C.
WBAI Annual Dinner 2025: A Conversation with Cook County State's Attorney Eileen O'Neill Burke
WBAI Annual Dinner 2025: The 2025-2026 Board of Directors
WBAI Annual Dinner 2025: President's Award Honoree - Kate Conway
TWLIL 2025: Top Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Legal Employer Honoree - Malman Law
TWLIL 2025: Top Women Lawyers in Leadership Honorees
Judicial Reception 2025
TWLIL 2024 In Memoriam: Kathy Byrne
TWLIL 2024: Top Women Legislators in Leadership Honorees
TWLIL 2024: Top Legal Employers in Leadership Honorees
TWLIL 2024: Top Women Lawyers in Leadership Honorees
Annual Dinner 2024: About the Women's Bar Association of Illinois
Judicial Reception 2024
Top Women Lawyers & Legislators in Leadership Awards 2021
TWLIL 2023 Honoree: Representative Ann Williams
TWLIL 2023 Honoree: Commissioner Josina Morita
TWLIL 2023 Honoree: Representative Camille Lilly
TWLIL 2023 Honoree: Karen Sheley
TWLIL 2023 Honoree: Diana Joseph
TWLIL 2023 Honoree: Patricia Brown Holmes
TWLIL 2023 Honoree: Margaret Duval
TWLIL 2023 Honoree: Alfreda Bradley-Coar
Annual Dinner 2023: Woman with Vision Honoree Kathrine Switzer
Why WBAI? About the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois
The Importance of Mentorship for Lawyers