San Joaquin County Bar Association Launches Unity Bar In Honor of Justice William J. Murray, Jr.
San Joaquin County Bar Association Launches Unity Bar in Honor of Justice William J. Murray, Jr.
The San Joaquin County Bar Association has launched a new section of the Bar named the Justice William J. Murray, Jr. Unity Bar Section of the San Joaquin County Bar Association. The new section will strive to bring together members of various affinity groups, along with those who do not identify with a particular group, in pursuit of promoting unity and diversity within the legal profession. This section will provide a united front for Bar members to stand collectively in solidarity against all forms of racism and discrimination and to promote unity and mutual support.
The Unity Bar is named in honor of Justice William J. Murray, Jr., a visionary who attempted to establish a Unity Bar in San Joaquin County 15 years ago but was told there was no need at the time. The Bar believes Justice Murray is deserving of recognition for his tireless leadership to the bench and Bar, his positive impact throughout the state’s judicial system, and his extensive contributions to legal and judicial education and community outreach. He is a jurist of great distinction who has consistently promoted unity, fairness, access, and justice.
Justice Murray served on the San Joaquin County Superior Court bench for 15 years until his appointment by Governor Schwarzenegger to California’s Third District Court of Appeal. Prior to his judicial appointment, he served nearly 10 years with the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office. Known for his community outreach efforts, he was a co-creator of the Court’s innovative and award-winning Court-Community Leadership & Liaison Program and the Jury Compliance and Education Program.
The first session of the Unity Bar will be held on May 18, 2021, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Judge Connie Callahan, Justice William J. Murray, Jr., Judicial Appointments Secretary Luis Cespedes, and other speakers are scheduled to participate in the introductory Zoom meeting. The event is limited to bench and Bar members.