In 2008 we are celebrating J.L. Turner Legal Association's 56th year of service, struggle and scholarship. What has JLTLA been doing since it was founded back in 1952 you may ask? Here is a summary of what JLTLA endeavors to do on an annual basis. JLTLA:

1. Gives over $12,000.00 in scholarships to law students annually;
2. Provides mentors to African-American law students;
3. Provides opportunities for its members to participate in pro bono legal clinics and other volunteer community outreach efforts throughout the Dallas community;
4. Helps to keep African-American attorneys in Dallas informed of local, state and national legal issues;
5. Helps to keep African-American attorneys informed on what is going on in the African-American community in Dallas;
6. Helps to promote and market African-American attorneys to the greater community;
7. JLTLA Website provides an online search engine of African-American attorneys in Dallas by name and legal practice area that is accessible worldwide;
8. Serves as a point of contact for legal organizations needing to contact African-American attorneys in the Dallas area;
9. Provides a network allowing African-American attorneys in Dallas to get to know each other.

JLTLA is and will remain focused on the special needs and issues that concern the African-American legal community and the African-American community at large. However, the membership of JLTLA is open to men and women of all races, colors and creeds who support the efforts and goals of this association.

Is JLTLA still relevant, still needed within today's legal community? After 50 years, we still believe that the answer is a resounding "YES!" If you support the mission of JLTLA, we invite you to become a member and join with us in our efforts.

Thank you,

E. Steve Bolden, II
2008 President
J.L. Turner Legal Association