We are honored to spotlight Associate Justice Anita Earls of the North Carolina Supreme Court, a lifelong advocate for justice, equity, and civil rights. With a career dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers and expanding access to justice, Justice Earls continues to break new ground in the legal profession.
In 2025, Justice Earls was awarded the Margaret Brent Women Lawyers of Achievement Award by the American Bar Association—one of the legal field’s highest honors. Established in 1991, the award recognizes outstanding women lawyers who have paved the way for others. Justice Earls is only the second attorney from North Carolina to receive this national honor, following the legendary Annie Brown Kennedy in 2002.
Her acceptance speech and a moving tribute video detailing her career can be found on the ABA’s official page for the award, alongside photographs from the ceremony in Toronto. Justice Earls continues to inspire a new generation of lawyers through her unwavering commitment to justice, courageous leadership, and tireless advocacy for marginalized communities.
“It’s not enough to sit at the table—we must also make sure the doors are open wide for others to join us.”
— Justice Anita Earls
Learn more in the ABA Journal’s article on the 2025 honorees.
