Leadership Forum

The MBA Leadership Forum provides attorneys in their early years of practice with leadership-building activities and equips them with the skills necessary to make a positive impact in Memphis and the legal community. 

The mission of the MBA Leadership forum is to:

• Develop the leadership skills of attorneys in their early years of practice;
• Empower those attorneys to use their leadership skills to make greater contributions to the Memphis community and the legal profession;
• Model and practice the highest standards of the legal profession; and 
• Encourage variety in the practice of law and the building of relationships among attorneys.

The Leadership Forum will have monthly sessions that will explore such topics as:

• Identifying and obtaining leadership opportunities that are right for you
• Translating leadership experience into meaningful contributions to your practice/career
• Communication skills
• Conflict resolution
• Attorney's role in the community 
• Balancing work and life

The Award-Winning Leadership Forum
The Leadership Forum received an E. Smythe Gambrell Professionalism Award from the ABA as a model professionalism program. The MBA is excited to bring back this award-winning program. 

View the List of Past Participants

Who is eligible?
Any Memphis Bar Association member who will be in their third to eighth year of practice during the Forum may apply. Class size is limited to 25. Participants will be selected to ensure variety in terms of practice area and practice setting. 

What is the cost?
Tuition is $495.

How do I apply?
Complete and submit the application by April 17. The Steering Committee will review applications and notify participants in May.

Complete the online application here.

Download the Program Information Packet

Important Dates

Application Deadline: April 17, 2026

Kick-Off Reception: August 
Session 1: September
Session 2: October 
Session 3: November
Session 4: January
Session 5: February
Graduation Reception: March