Four FIU Law alumni were among 10 members of the Haitian Lawyers Association (HLA) admitted to the Bar of the Supreme Court of the United States, marking the first time a group of HLA members was admitted to the Supreme Court Bar in the association's 27-year history.
FIU Law alumna Geralda David (J.D. ’13), managing attorney of David Law Office, P.A., helped advance the initiative while serving as president of HLA. The effort brought members together to pursue admission to the nation's highest court, with eight members of the association's board of directors among those admitted.
Joining David were fellow FIU Law alumni Loune-Djenia Askew (J.D. ’20), Frandley Denis Julien (J.D. ’17), and Vladimir St. Louis (J.D. ’13). St. Louis, a former HLA president, also represents the continued involvement of FIU Law graduates in leadership and service within Florida's Haitian-American legal community.
Lawyers must be members of the U.S. Supreme Court Bar to argue before the Supreme Court of the United States. To qualify for admission, attorneys must have been admitted to practice in the highest court of a qualifying jurisdiction for at least three years and meet professional conduct and character requirements.
At the December 8, 2025, ceremony, Michaèl’s Déborah Saint-Vil presented the motion for the group's admission to the U.S. Supreme Court Bar. HLA also recognized Saint-Vil and Francesse Lucius Cheron for their guidance and assistance throughout the application process.
The initiative's impact extends beyond the original ceremony. Continuing under subsequent HLA leadership, the effort demonstrates how an initiative implemented during one administration can create opportunities for future members and contribute to an organization's lasting impact.