Black History Month offers a moment to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of Black professionals across all sectors. In the realm of BigLaw, a select group of trailblazing attorneys have not only broken barriers but also reshaped the industry landscape for future generations. Today, we honor five pioneering Black attorneys whose leadership, vision, and determination have left an indelible mark on the legal profession.
William T. Coleman Jr. (1915–2017)
William T. Coleman Jr. blazed a trail in an era when the legal profession was overwhelmingly homogeneous. As the first Black attorney hired by a major New York City law firm—Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison—Coleman shattered longstanding barriers. His career, marked by resilience and excellence, paved the way for countless others to follow in his footsteps. His groundbreaking achievements not only set a precedent for inclusivity in BigLaw but also underscored the critical need for diversity in legal leadership—a legacy that continues to inspire today.
John W. Daniels Jr.
John W. Daniels Jr. has been a transformative force in BigLaw, breaking new ground as the first African-American to serve as managing partner at an Am Law 200 firm, Quarles & Brady. His ascent to the top leadership position in a major law firm marked a significant milestone, proving that excellence knows no color. Daniels’ tenure redefined firm leadership, demonstrating that diverse perspectives are not only vital for fair representation but also essential for driving innovation and success in the legal arena.
Shauna Johnson Clark
At Norton Rose Fulbright, Shauna Clark has made history as the first woman of color to lead an Am Law 200 firm. Her appointment is a revolutionary step forward for both gender and racial diversity in BigLaw. Clark’s strategic vision and unwavering commitment to inclusivity have been instrumental in steering the firm toward new heights. Under her leadership, Norton Rose Fulbright has embraced diverse perspectives, proving that when barriers are removed, the entire firm—and the industry at large—can thrive.
Dr. Trevor D. Sterling
In 2021, Trevor Sterling broke new ground by becoming the first Black senior partner at a top 100 UK law firm, Moore Barlow. With a career spanning 40 years in law, Sterling has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to diversity and community empowerment. His founding of the Be the Ladder Foundation—a non-profit dedicated to supporting underprivileged youth in education—exemplifies his belief that true progress comes from uplifting others. Sterling’s contributions extend
beyond his legal practice, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration
for future generations.
Togo D. West Jr.
Togo D. West, Jr. was a pioneering attorney and civil rights advocate whose distinguished career spanned both public service and private practice. Recognized as one of the first African American partners at a prominent law firm, West broke significant barriers in an era when opportunities for Black lawyers were severely limited. His legal expertise and steadfast commitment to justice eventually led to his historic appointment as the United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs under President Bill Clinton. Throughout his career, West was dedicated to advancing the rights of marginalized communities and promoting diversity within the legal profession, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire future generations.
As we celebrate Black History Month, these trailblazers remind us of the strides that have been made—and the work that still lies ahead—in building a legal profession that truly reflects the diversity of our society. Their legacies continue to inspire, serving as a call to action for all of us to champion inclusivity, drive meaningful change, and pave the way for future generations in BigLaw.
