J.L. Turner Legal Association Mission

The J.L. Turner Legal Association (“JLTLA”), is the African-American bar association in Dallas, Texas. JLTLA is also the Dallas affiliate of the National Bar Association. The J.L. Turner Legal Association Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization which exists and operates separately from JLTLA.

JLTLA is an organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life in our community through education, service and scholarship. The members of JLTLA provide scholarships to law students demonstrating financial or other needs, provide attorney mentors for law students, perform educational and other community outreach projects for North Texas area residents, and assist our members and the community to become more aware of African-American attorneys who practice in various areas of the law.‍

A Message From Our President


As we begin this new year, I am honored and excited to serve as President of the J.L. Turner Legal Association. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, I earned both my undergraduate degree and Juris Doctor from Northern Illinois University. I currently serve as an Associate at Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP, where I practice on the Consumer Financial Services and Data Privacy teams.

My goal for 2026 is to thoughtfully innovate and revamp the organization while building meaningful connections across generations of attorneys. I am committed to bridging the gap for new lawyers, strengthening engagement with fellow bar associations, and ensuring JLTLA remains a dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking legal organization.

Together, we will honor the legacy—while building what’s next.

Join or Renew Your JLTLA Membership Today!

Be part of a dynamic network committed to empowering African-American legal professionals in Dallas and beyond. As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive CLEs and events, mentorship opportunities, pro bono initiatives, community outreach, and a strong professional network. Your membership supports scholarships, advocacy, and the promotion of Black excellence in the legal field. Join us in making a lasting impact.

Join us

Upcoming events

Legacy in Motion: Nominations Are Now Open for the 2026 L.A. Bedford Luncheon

Celebrate Excellence. Honor Legacy.

The J.L. Turner Legal Association proudly announces the return of our annual L.A. Bedford Luncheon, taking place on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Arts District Mansion.

We invite members of the legal community to submit nominations recognizing outstanding attorneys, judges, and leaders whose work embodies the spirit and legacy of L.A. Bedford.

Award Categories

  1. C.B. Bunkley Community Service Award
  2. Cleo Steele Committed Mentor Award
  3. Hon. Sam Lindsay Professionalism Award
  4. L.A. Bedford Distinguished Jurist Award
  5. Trailblazer Award


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Contact Us

If you have questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at:

admin@jltla.org

WEBSITE LEGAL DISCLAIMER: J.L. Turner Legal Association (“JLTLA”) is not a law firm. JLTLA is the African-American Bar Association of Dallas, Texas. JLTLA Does not provide any legal services. JLTLA does not represent individuals, groups, or corporations in legal matters. If you need assistance with a pending legal matter, you will have to seek legal representation from an attorney in whatever state that you might live in. JLTLA cannot be retained as your attorney under any circumstances, and will not represent you in any legal matter.

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