Jane Bolin, American lawyer and judge (d. 2007)

Jane Matilda Bolin, a trailblazer whose life spanned from April 11, 1908, to January 8, 2007, etched her name into American history through a series of groundbreaking achievements that shattered racial and gender barriers in the legal profession. Her journey of firsts began with her remarkable academic success and continued through her pivotal roles in various legal institutions, culminating in her historic judicial appointment.

A formidable intellect and determined spirit, Bolin achieved a monumental feat by becoming the first African American woman to graduate from the prestigious Yale Law School. This significant accomplishment, earning her an LL.B. degree, was a testament to her brilliance in an era when opportunities for women, especially Black women, in higher education and law were severely limited.

Her pioneering spirit extended beyond academia into the professional legal sphere. Bolin was also the first Black woman to be accepted into the New York City Bar Association, a crucial step for any aspiring lawyer seeking to integrate into the legal community. Not long after, she further solidified her position as a vanguard by becoming the first Black woman to join the New York City Law Department, undertaking critical work within the city's legal framework.

However, it was her elevation to the judiciary that truly cemented her legacy as a transformative figure. In a landmark moment for civil rights and justice, Jane Bolin was sworn into office in 1939, becoming the first Black woman to serve as a judge in the United States. She took her place on the bench of the New York City Domestic Relations Court, a court dedicated to family matters, child welfare, and domestic issues. Her appointment was not merely symbolic; it represented a profound shift in the landscape of American justice, opening doors that had long been closed to African American women.

Throughout her distinguished judicial career, which spanned an impressive four decades until her mandatory retirement in 1978, Judge Bolin was a staunch advocate for justice and equality. She was known for her compassionate yet firm approach, particularly in cases involving children. She actively worked to dismantle racial discrimination within the court system, famously advocating for placing children in foster homes without regard to their race and ensuring that probation officers were assigned to cases without racial bias. Her tenure brought about significant positive changes, profoundly impacting the lives of countless families and setting a precedent for future generations of legal professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jane Bolin

Who was Jane Matilda Bolin?

Jane Matilda Bolin (1908–2007) was a pioneering American lawyer and judge, widely recognized for being the first Black woman to achieve numerous "firsts" in the legal profession, most notably becoming the first Black woman judge in the United States.

What were Jane Bolin's key "firsts" in her career?

Her notable "firsts" include being the first Black woman to graduate from Yale Law School, the first to join the New York City Bar Association, the first to join the New York City Law Department, and most significantly, the first Black woman to serve as a judge in the United States.

When did Jane Bolin become a judge?

Jane Bolin was sworn in as a judge in 1939, taking her seat on the New York City Domestic Relations Court.

Which court did Judge Bolin serve on?

She served on the New York City Domestic Relations Court, which later became the Family Court, focusing on matters related to family welfare and children's rights.

How long did Jane Bolin serve as a judge?

Judge Bolin had an extensive judicial career, serving for four decades until her mandatory retirement in 1978.

What was Jane Bolin's impact as a judge?

As a judge, she championed children's rights and actively worked to end racial discrimination within the court system, advocating for non-discriminatory placement of children in foster care and unbiased assignment of probation officers, leaving a lasting legacy of fairness and equality.