New York Paralegal Blog

Ever wondered how lawyers became "lawyers"? Today, we picture grand universities with ivy-covered buildings. But legal education wasn't always like that. In fact, the way law schools developed in America reveals a less-than-rosy history, one where the push for "professionalism" was often a thinly veiled excuse to keep out Black people and other minorities. The Old Way: Learning on the Job For centuries, if you wanted to become a lawyer, you'd apprentice with an experienced attorney. Think of it like a hands-on internship. You'd learn the ropes by working in their office, reading law books, and observing court cases. There were also a few early law schools, but they weren't the norm. This "learn-by-doing" approach, while imperfect, allowed for a more diverse group of people to enter the legal field, regardless of their wealth or background. The "Professional" Shift: Raising the Bar (and Barriers) As the 19th century tur...

In the second installment of our series on Affirmative Action, we shift our focus to the arguments underpinning its continued necessity. Proponents assert that the playing field is not yet level, and that systemic barriers and the long shadow of historical disadvantages continue to impede true equality of opportunity for racial minorities. This isn't about ignoring merit, but recognizing that merit is often stifled by deeply ingrained societal inequalities. The Unseen Hurdles: Systemic Barriers Imagine a race where some runners start with hurdles in their lanes while others have a clear path. This is the reality created by systemic barriers. These are not isolated incidents of prejudice, but rather institutionalized practices and policies that, while seemingly neutral on the surface, disproportionately disadvantage minority groups. One stark example lies in the use of credit reports in employment. For many, a credit score is a reflection of financial responsibility. However, due t...