About OWLS Mary Leonard Chapter
The Mary Leonard Chapter of Oregon Women Lawyers (OWLS) meets monthly, September through May, and sponsors CLE presentations, fundraisers for local organizations, and other social events in the Salem, Oregon area. Our mission is to transform the practice of law and ensure justice and equality by advancing women and minorities in the legal profession.
Although now a chapter of OWLS, our organization predates the formation of OWLS. The Mary Leonard Law Society was formed in 1985 by approximately 25 women who came together to create an organization supporting the needs and concerns of women practicing law. Since its foundation, we have grown to over 200 women and men, lawyers, judges, law students, and legal professionals committed to making a difference in the practice of law and the justice system. In May 2016, the board voted to change the organization name to Oregon Women Lawyers Mary Leonard Chapter.
Our namesake, Mary Gysin Leonard (pictured right), became the first woman licensed to practice law in the State of Oregon on April 13, 1886. She was admitted to the bar after successfully arguing before the Oregon Supreme Court, pro se, that she should not be subject to a court rule requiring a year's residence in Oregon before admission, given that the rule was not also being enforced against men. Learn more about Mary Gysin Leonard.
Although now a chapter of OWLS, our organization predates the formation of OWLS. The Mary Leonard Law Society was formed in 1985 by approximately 25 women who came together to create an organization supporting the needs and concerns of women practicing law. Since its foundation, we have grown to over 200 women and men, lawyers, judges, law students, and legal professionals committed to making a difference in the practice of law and the justice system. In May 2016, the board voted to change the organization name to Oregon Women Lawyers Mary Leonard Chapter.
Our namesake, Mary Gysin Leonard (pictured right), became the first woman licensed to practice law in the State of Oregon on April 13, 1886. She was admitted to the bar after successfully arguing before the Oregon Supreme Court, pro se, that she should not be subject to a court rule requiring a year's residence in Oregon before admission, given that the rule was not also being enforced against men. Learn more about Mary Gysin Leonard.