Lawyer Referral & Info Services

The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL) has served the St. Louis legal community and public since its founding in 1874. With a membership exceeding 6,800 lawyers, judges, paralegals, and law firm administrators, the association is dedicated to maintaining high standards among legal practitioners, ensuring the fair administration of justice, and fostering professional relationships among its members.

BAMSL provides a range of services, including continuing legal education, publications such as the St. Louis Bar Journal, and career placement for legal professionals. It operates the St. Louis Lawyer Search, a free online directory that connects individuals in the St. Louis metropolitan area with attorneys based on their specific legal needs. While the referral service itself is free to users, the attorneys found through the directory charge fees for their services.

Historically, BAMSL played a significant role in the formation of both the American Bar Association and The Missouri Bar Association. The association has also championed initiatives such as merit selection of judges and the establishment of the Legal Aid Society, now known as Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, Inc. Additionally, BAMSL was instrumental in developing public defender programs. The organization actively supports the fair and impartial administration of justice, advocating against racism and discrimination to ensure equitable access to legal processes for all individuals.