The Cochran Firm proudly congratulates attorney James J. Carter, Managing Partner of The Cochran Firm-Trials & Mass Torts and member of The Cochran Firm's National Board of Directors, on his induction as the 84th President of the National Bar Association (NBA).

A native New Orleanian and proud Howard University School of Law graduate, Carter is an accomplished attorney and civic leader. He has practiced law for over 26 years and has successfully recovered millions of dollars on behalf of clients throughout the United States. In addition to his contributions to The Cochran Firm, he has served the NBA in numerous leadership roles, including Vice President of Finance, Vice President of Regions & Affiliates, and member of the Board of Governors.

Carter was inducted during the NBA's 101st Annual Convention on July 30, 2026, becoming only the second Louisiana resident in the organization's 101-year history to serve as President. Carter’s bar year theme, "Meeting the Moment: A Continuing Legacy of Social Engineering and Empowerment," reflects his commitment to advancing civic engagement, economic opportunity, and equal justice under the law.

During the ceremony, Carter was introduced by acclaimed New Orleans attorney James Williams and sworn in by Judge Kern Reese. Family, friends, colleagues, NBA leaders, and guests from across the country were in attendance, including National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial, who provided Carter with one of his earliest leadership opportunities more than three decades ago.

“Our next century requires courage, discipline and practical action. We will strengthen civic activism, defend access to the ballot, advance financial independence, and address the conditions that affect the health and safety of our communities." -Carter

Founded in 1925 after Black attorneys were excluded from membership in the American Bar Association, the National Bar Association has spent more than a century championing civil rights, professional excellence, judicial independence, and equal access to justice. Carter assumes the presidency at a pivotal moment as the organization builds on its historic legacy while addressing the challenges and opportunities of a new era.

"We will protect what prior generations built, respond to the realities facing our communities now, and create the systems the next generation will need." -Carter

The Cochran Firm is proud to recognize this achievement and congratulates President Carter as he begins his term leading the National Bar Association.

james carter
James J. Carter, Esq.