WLIB History

WLIB began in 1976 as the brainchild of a group of groundbreaking women attorneys when the opportunity to participate in the bar association was non-existent.

Over the years, WLIB has grown from a small group of women to a specialized bar association with hundreds of members. WLIB members are attorneys with large, small and solo firms, judges and law clerks, who each bring diverse backgrounds and experience which in turn enriches the organization. WLIB members have become judges and leaders in the County Bar and State Bar Associations.

While WLIB members vary in terms of experience, areas, age and ethnicity, we all share the common idea that a successful legal society succeeds on the commitment of its lawyers and judges to the legal and civic community. This tradition remains the same as from the inception of WLIB to the present.

Jean Robertson Women Lawyers Scholarship Foundation, Inc.

In 1986, WLIB established the Jean Robertson Women Lawyers Scholarship Foundation, Inc. in memory of WLIB Past President Jean Robertson. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded scholarships to women attending law school in New Jersey.

After raising a family of four sons, Jean went to law school at the age of forty-three. In 1971, she joined the Bergen County Public Defenders Office as one of its first female attorneys and became a role model for many attorneys. Jean was a tough advocate who fought tirelessly on behalf of her indigent clients. She passed away on September 20, 1985.

WLIB's members formed the scholarship foundation in Jean's memory. It is awarded to students who embody the ideals and values that Jean taught by her example. Female students at New Jersey's law schools are encouraged to applied. Applications are available by contacting the President of WLIB or through either the Rutgers or Seton Hall School of Law.