Woman Lawyer: The Trials of Clara Foltz

Gordon, Laura DeForce

Laura deForce Gordon was a well known trial lawyer in California ("lady lawyer of San Joaquin County.") Gordon frequently appeared at the state legislature, lobbing various reform causes. In 1871 she was nominated by the Independent party …

Laura DeForce Gordon's Campaign for State Senate, 1871

Clara Shortridge Foltz's Campaign for State Senate, 1912

Foltz, Clara Shortridge

Clara Shortridge Foltz was a pioneering woman attorney who opened the California bar to women lawyers. She practiced law until the age of 80 and innovated the idea of an office of public defender. Foltz was active in the fight for suffrage…

Laura DeForce Gordon's Campaign for State Constitutional Convention Delegate, 1878

Clara Shortridge Foltz's Campaign for City Attorney, 1892