Since its inception in 1897, the Genesee County Bar Association (GCBA) has been a cornerstone of the Flint legal community. Founded by George H. Durand, the Association aimed to foster camaraderie among legal professionals and enhance the administration of justice – a mission that continues to guide its endeavors today.
Pioneering Moments in GCBA History
The GCBA’s commitment to justice and community service is evident in its rich history. In 1934, the association formalized its structure by filing Articles of Incorporation, emphasizing the importance of legal integrity and public protection. Notably, Ruth Winegarden stood out as the sole female among the 91 incorporators, marking an early step toward inclusivity.
The Association has been home to trailblazers like Harry G. Gault, who became the first GCBA member to serve as president of the State Bar of Michigan from 1947 to 1948. In the 1970s, Judge William S. Price III, a Tuskegee Airman, broke barriers as GCBA’s first African American President and later as a Circuit Court Judge.
Adapting Through the Decades
The GCBA has continually evolved to meet the needs of its members and the community. The establishment of a law library in collaboration with the Genesee County Circuit Court in the 1970s provided valuable resources to both lawyers and the public. The “Ask the Lawyer” program, initiated in 1984, transitioned from radio to TV and now includes in-person events at the Flint Public Library, offering guidance on topics like landlord-tenant disputes and bankruptcy.
In 2001, the GCBA secured its current Flint headquarters at 315 E. Court Street, symbolizing its commitment to building a stronger legal community. The Association embraced digital advancements by launching its website in 2005, enhancing accessibility and communication.
An affiliate GCBA membership was created in 2012, to include paralegals, legal secretaries, judicial secretaries, court clerks, court administrators, court reporters and other legal support staff. In 2020, the bylaws changed again to include Law Group Member and Business Affiliate memberships.
“Once I was an Association member, I found a community.”
Past President, Sherri L. Belknap
Community Engagement & Outreach
The GCBA’s dedication to public service is evident in its proactive responses to community needs. During World War II, members volunteered in factories to address labor shortages. Following the tornadoes that devastated Genesee County in 1953, the Association played a pivotal role in rebuilding efforts, contributing to the reconstruction of over 190 homes.
The Association’s outreach has also included supporting charitable causes, such as participating in the American Cancer Society’s “Lockup” fundraiser in the 1980s and organizing diaper drives inspired by local initiatives. During the Flint Water Crisis, the GCBA collaborated with organizations like the ACLU of Michigan and Legal Services of Eastern Michigan to form the Flint Water Advocacy Coalition, providing essential resources and legal support to affected residents.
In addition, the GCBA partners with Legal Services of Eastern Michigan and the Legal Resources Center located at the Genesee County Circuit Court to answer questions from self-represented litigants
Supporting Legal Professionals & the Next Generation
The GCBA offers numerous benefits to its members, including networking opportunities, legal seminars, and mentorship programs. Past President, Sherri L. Belknap, highlighted the Association’s role in building her confidence and professional growth. “I am very grateful for my membership in the Genesee County Bar Association,” she shared. “Through the years, I met and networked with other attorneys, and was able to talk with judges at various events and participate in community activities. Once I was a member, I found a community.”
Recognizing the importance of nurturing future legal minds, the GCBA established a Law Group membership in 2020, welcoming undergraduate students interested in the legal field. The Young Lawyers Section provides a platform for emerging attorneys to engage with the legal community, with representation on the Board of Directors ensuring their voices are heard.
Leadership & Vision
The GCBA’s leadership structure comprises a President, Vice-President, Treasurer and Secretary. The current officers are:
- President: Angela Wheeler
- Vice-President: Elias Fanous
- Treasurer: Eric Mead
- Secretary: Rick Hetherington
Angela Wheeler’s vision emphasizes fostering a supportive environment that promotes professional excellence, civility, and respect among members, ultimately enhancing service to
the community.
The GCBA continues to focus on strategic goals, including attracting and retaining members, expanding affiliate memberships, enhancing networking opportunities, increasing visibility and providing educational resources.
Signature Events & Traditions
The GCBA hosts several annual events that have become staples in the local legal community:
Annual Meetings: Held each May, these meetings include the election of officers and board members, followed by a luncheon at the Flint Farmers’ Market.
Barrister’s Ball: A key Association fundraiser since 2015, this black-tie event features themed celebrations,
with proceeds supporting various charities.
Holiday Dinner: Initiated in 1992, this event has grown to serve hundreds, providing meals, gifts and photos with Santa to those in need. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the GCBA adapted by delivering meals and gifts to local shelters.
Law Day: Celebrated annually, Law Day includes mock trials, essay contests and educational activities, engaging local students and the public in understanding the legal system.
Since the creation of Law Day and until COVID, the GCBA held annual events to celebrate a theme as decided by the American Bar Association. Activities included mock trials held before Genesee County Circuit and District Court Judges, luncheons with speakers, vignettes, jury voir dire, coloring contests and an essay contest. Law Day is expected to return in 2026.
Looking Ahead
The GCBA continues to focus on strategic goals, including attracting and retaining members, expanding affiliate memberships, enhancing networking opportunities, increasing visibility and providing educational resources. Efforts are underway to rejuvenate the Law Day program, aiming to inspire youth interest in legal careers.
Through its enduring commitment to justice, education and community service, the Genesee County Bar Association remains a vital institution, shaping the legal landscape of Flint and beyond.
The information provided above can be found in Genesee County Bar Association: The First 125 Years of Excellence. The book can be purchased through the GCBA website gcbalaw.org.
