About

Our mission is to shape the development of law, educate and inform the public, and respond to the demands of our diverse and ever changing legal profession. NYSBA advocates for state and federal legislation and works tirelessly to promote equal access to justice for all.

Meet Our Leaders

Leadership

Founded in 1876

The New York State Bar Association rented space in a number of Albany locations before acquiring its own headquarters at 99 Washington Ave in 1953.

The Association’s Objectives

Originally stated in its constitution adopted in 1877, are the same today. The are: to cultivate the science of jurisprudence, promote reform in the law, facilitate the administration of justice, and elevate the standards of integrity, honor, professional skill and courtesy in the legal profession.

The Current Bar Center

Now occupies numbers 1 through 6 Elk Street facing Academy Park. It was formerly dedicated on September 24, 1971 and rededicated on November 10, 1990, as part of a $6.8 million expansion program.

Today NYSBA Continues to Expand

With members in 50 states and over 100 countries worldwide, our membership has grown to over 70,000, and we are excited to see that number climb as we embark on the launch of the Virtual Bar Center in 2020.

Diversity & Inclusion

NYSBA is committed to diversity in its membership, officers, staff, House of Delegates, Executive Committee, Sections and Committees and their respective leaders. Diversity is an inclusive concept, encompassing gender, race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age and disability.