More than 40 years ago, during a time when Broward County Jewish lawyers were not included in mainstream bar associations, Maurice Berkowitz established the B’nai B’rith Justice Unit #5207, a Jewish organization for lawyers and judges, based upon the need for the Jewish attorneys to interact. The organization became a place for Jewish attorneys to combat anti-semitism, fight for human rights, support seniors, and provide humanitarian aid. Many leading Jewish attorneys and judges served as President of the Chapter, which made a positive difference throughout the community.
In early 2021, when concerns arose that judges were involved in supporting a private organization, the Justice Unit was established as a separate organization to continue to be a place for Jewish lawyers and judges to interact. The organization no longer raised money as a Chapter of B’nai B’rith, but continued to serve causes of promoting human rights, supporting seniors and bringing Jewish attorneys together. The “Justice Unit” name, however, did not capture what the organization was about.
On March 30, 2025, for the first time, the Jewish organization is putting “Jewish” in the name. The organization has been renamed the Jewish Bar Association of Broward County, and will work alongside other bar associations that promote legal justice and opportunities for lawyers and judges to interact. In the aftermath of October 7th, it is more important than ever for Jewish lawyers to play a vital voice in combatting anti-Semitism, promoting Jewish unity and continuity, and fostering relationships among Jewish lawyers in the legal community.
The mission remains to enhance the South Florida legal community through social, educational, and charitable activities, with a focus on raising awareness of Jewish culture and heritage and combating antisemitism and discrimination. The organization will also stand in solidarity with Israel, and to support a just and tolerant world.