As the founder and principal of the largest Black-owned law firm in California's Inland Empire, attorney Zulu Ali is a true leader in social justice. Alongside his daughter, attorney Whitney Ali, he has built the Law Offices of Zulu Ali & Associates, LLP into one of the top law firms in the country, representing all seeking justice.
At a young age, Ali was inspired by his grandfather, a janitor who cleaned law offices. His grandfather and grandmother inspired him with the legacy of great African American attorneys like Avon Williams, Z. Alexander Looby, Thurgood Marshall, and Johnnie Cochran. They saw these figures as symbols of hope and pride, and Ali felt the same.
"The vision of these great men and many like them is often forgotten," Ali shared, "but I make it my mission to carry on their spirit as much as possible. I would not dare to compare myself to these great champions of justice, I just hope that I can continue to do all I can to keep their spirit alive."
A Career in Law
After leaving high school, Ali served his country in the United States Marine Corps and as a police officer. Upon enrolling in college, he pursued a law degree. He earned a Juris Doctor from Trinity International University, as well as other key degrees and certifications along the way. In 2007, he founded the Law Offices of Zulu Ali & Associates, LLP, with a mission to represent persons accused of crimes, immigrants, and persons seeking civil justice in state and federal courts.
Since becoming an attorney, Ali has established a reputation for aggression and success. He has successfully argued and published landmark decisions at the federal court level, including Eric Hermosillo v. United States Attorney General Merrick Garland. Ali has been recognized among Top Trial Lawyers by the National Black Lawyers and National Trial Lawyers Associations, among many others.
A Prominent Figure in Global Courts
Today, Ali is listed as one of the Most Influential People of African Descent, Law and Justice Edition, proclaimed by the United Nations' General Assembly. Furthermore, he is on the list of counsel at both the African Court of Justice and Human Rights in Tanzania and the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands.
Justice in Media, Education, and Advocacy
Outside of his professional work, Ali fights for justice in media, education, and cultural advocacy. He is the founder and CEO of 10 Nubian Queens & 5 Kings Media, a mass media production company focusing on Black family and social justice content. Additionally, he is the host of the radio talk show Justice Watch with Attorney Zulu Ali, for which he was made a member of the National Black Radio Hall of Fame.
Ali is also the director of the Linda Reese Harvey Stop and Frisk Youth Leadership Academy, which mentors youth to deal with police encounters, and he is the director of the Southern California Veterans Legal Clinic, an institution offering no-cost and low-cost services to military veterans.
Creating a Legacy
In many ways, Ali has solidified his own legacy of social justice, advocating for those in need and supporting their cause. His efforts are inspiring the next generation of change-makers, elevating the less fortunate, and building toward a better and more just future. Though his work is not yet over, Ali remains determined to create lasting change in the United States and the world.
