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JAMS ADR Insights

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

“My Story” Featuring Priscilla Hall

A video snapshot of JAMS mediator and arbitrator Hon. Priscilla Hall (Ret.)

From Columbia to the Courtroom

Priscilla Hall’s legal career began with a solid academic foundation at Columbia Law School. After graduating, she initially served as a corporate attorney at General Electric, before transitioning into public service as an Assistant District Attorney in New York County. Her career continued to flourish with roles as Inspector General for the New York City Department of Employment, Assistant Attorney General for the New York State Department of Law, and Inspector General for the New York City Human Resources Administration. These diverse experiences paved the way for her distinguished career in law and public service, ultimately leading to her appointment as a judge.

Guided by Integrity

Hall's experience as inspector general of the Human Resources Administration (HRA) was transformative.

"I learned very early that I need to maintain my integrity. That was my job. I was the inspector general. I'm supposed to do investigations, and whatever I find, that's what I find," she explains.

This commitment to truth and integrity was not just a job requirement but a guiding principle that shaped her career on the bench as well.



A Legacy of Respect

Reflecting on her judicial career, Hall emphasizes the importance of respect and empathy.

"You try to do what it is that you think is right, and that is what I did. So then you can see that you can have an impact on people's lives, as long as you respect them," she explains.

Hall believes that treating everyone with dignity and understanding is crucial in fostering trust and achieving fair outcomes. In her ADR practice, she applies this approach by actively listening to all parties so that their perspectives are acknowledged and valued.

Wisdom from the Bench

A significant influence in Hall's career was George Bundy Smith, a judge on the NY Court of Appeals, NY state’s highest court.

"He (George Bundy Smith) was really a great judge and mentored all of us lawyers and young judges at that time," she recalls.

Smith was dedicated to providing guidance and support, explaining the intricacies of running for office, being appointed, or being elected. He generously shared his knowledge and was always happy to help. His dedication to mentoring and providing guidance was invaluable for Hall and her peers.

Building Bridges in the Community

Hall highlights the importance of community involvement, inspired by her mentor's advice to be active in the community. She speaks highly of the National Bar Association, an organization of Black lawyers and judges across the nation, which she loves for its supportive community.

Even while serving as a neutral at JAMS, Hall continues her dedication to public service. She serves on various committees, including the Mayor’s Judiciary Advisory Committee which screens applicants for appointment by the Mayor and the Governor’s Second Department Judiciary Committee which screens applicants for the Second Department of the Appellate division. And the Governor’s Clemency Committee which screens individuals who are seeking clemency from the Governor.

"Public service is something that was instilled in me and in my siblings by our parents. So, that's what you're supposed to do. You're supposed to serve your community. And that is what I try to do."

So Many Reasons to Rejoice

Reflecting on her life, Hall sees it as a journey filled with joy and opportunities. She attributes her success and contentment to the strong foundation provided by her spectacular parents and the loving support of her brother and sister. Hall acknowledges that while not all opportunities she pursued were successful, she made the most of them, learning and growing from each experience. Her proactive approach to seizing opportunities has been a cornerstone of her personal and professional life. For Hall, life is a song with "So Many Reasons to Rejoice" (The Wiz, 1975), and she embraces each moment with gratitude and optimism.


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