Belonging in the Bar Luncheon

The legal profession is built on advocacy, resilience, and service—yet many lawyers and law students face unique barriers when navigating their careers with disabilities or mental health challenges. Too often, these experiences remain unseen or unspoken, contributing to stigma, isolation, and missed opportunities for support.

The Diversity Committee of the Mississippi Bar Young Lawyers Division (“YLD”) invites members of the legal community to come together to increase awareness, share perspectives, and highlight resources for lawyers and law students with disabilities or mental health challenges. Through speakers with firsthand experience, a panel discussion focused on available resources, and a moderated Q&A session, participants will explore how disability and mental health intersect with legal education and professional practice.

YLD is grateful to host this program in collaboration with partners from across the legal community, including the Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program, Mississippi Access to Justice, Jackson Young Lawyers, and National Disabled Legal Professionals (d/b/a Crip the Law).

Info: Engage with a distinguished panel regarding resources and accommodations. Panelists will include Dr. Jessica Cole, Program Director for the Lawyers and Judges Assistance Program; Nicole McDowell, Executive Director of the MS Access to Justice Commission; and Dean Kate Forster from University of Mississippi School of Law.

Info: Open floor to ask speakers and panelists questions!

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Host or Publisher MS Bar's Young Lawyers Division