Series III. LEGAL CAREER, 1956-1997, undated (#9.12-17.6)
Scope and Contents
Series III, LEGAL CAREER, 1956-1997, undated (#9.12-17.6), includes notes, research materials, clippings, correspondence, memos, amicus curiae briefs, depositions, affidavits, and other legal documents that Kennedy either created or collected in her work as a lawyer. It includes cases that she defended or prosecuted as well as legal causes that she supported or about which she was consulted. Kennedy began practicing law within a New York firm after passing the bar in 1952. By the early 1970s, she stopped practicing law full-time and dedicated her attention to political activism and public speaking. She continued to receive solicitations for legal assistance, however, and when she chose to practice, she typically focused on anti-discrimination cases. She often became involved in promoting well-known individuals by writing amicus curiae briefs, raising public awareness, and generating media interest, even if she did not actively serve as counsel. Some of the cases which Kennedy promoted and individuals she supported are located in other series (e.g., the complaint filed by the Feminist Party against the Catholic Church is located in #22.4-22.9). Search note: To locate all of the material pertaining to a cause or person, use the browser's search feature. This series is divided into four subseries.
Dates
- Creation: 1915-2004
- Creation: Majority of material found within 1947-1993
Language of Materials
Materials in English.
Access Restrictions:
Access. Although most of the papers are open for research, the following are closed as noted: legal cases found throughout #9.13-17.6, and other folders access to which would constitute an unwarranted invasion of privacy. An appointment is necessary to use any audiovisual material.
Extent
15.1 linear feet ((31+1/2 file boxes, 1 folio box, 1 carton) plus 4 folio folders, 2 folio+ folders, 1 oversized folder, 15 photograph folders, 211 videotapes, 1 motion picture)Creator
- From the Collection: Kennedy, Florynce, 1916-2000 (Person)
Repository Details
Part of the Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute Repository
The preeminent research library on the history of women in the United States, the Schlesinger Library documents women's lives from the past and present for the future. In addition to its traditional strengths in the history of feminisms, women’s health, and women’s activism, the Schlesinger collections document the intersectional workings of race and ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and class in American history.