I don’t really expect to find law firms owned by women everyday and everywhere.  But, I do wish for greater women representation within the firm fraternity.  So, you can’t blame me for feeling a duty to appreciate the courage of these African-American women lawyers who are running a successful law firm – the Ghatt Law Group.  Their arguments on behalf of their client, the National Hispanic Media Coalition, led the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to levy a staggering $ 24 million fine against Univision on March 27 – the largest fine yet imposed upon a broadcaster by the FCC.  Univision, a big broadcaster, had top ranking law firms like Shaw Pittman and Hogan & Hartson on its payroll, but the women from Ghatt Law Group turned up besting the best and being better. 

Three women from large law firms decided in 2005 to strike out on their own and formed the Ghatt Law Group in Washington, DC.  In the fiercely competitive market of Washington, DC it was a step full of uncertainties. But, hard work and determination have seen them through.  Today, the Ghatt Law Group has been successful in carving out a niche practice catering to the communications industry.  Recently, they successfully represented Bakewell Media of Louisiana in acquiring a radio station.  The founding partners of the firm are Janeba Jalloh Ghatt from Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLC, Nicolaine Lazarre from Weil, Gotshal & Manges, LLP, and Fatima Fofana from Davis Wright Tremaine, LLP.

In the press release issued on July 7, 2005 during the birth of the firm, principal Janeba Ghatt had viewed, “the legal field is run by white men in their 50’s.”  She went on to say, “Because there are still barriers out there for minorities and women trying to succeed in the profession, it is almost by necessity more so than choice that more of us are striking on our own and opening firms.”

Takes courage to say that, determination to carry that vision forward, and competence to achieve what they have done.  These women seem destined to become role models for others who feel the same way.  I can feel that in my bones.