Making Black History: The Law Office of Kimberly S. Sweeney PLLC

With February coming to a close so is our Making Black History feature. In the final installment of our Black History Month series, we introduce you to Attorney Kimberly Sweeney.

With the help of the law, Attorney Kimberly Sweeney is supporting the black community of South Mississippi by advising clients on financial awareness and financial education. “Unfortunately, the black community feels like they have been left behind. That they don’t have the resources or the knowledge to actually get over the hump in order to own a home.”

Sweeney went to Jackson State University then attended Mississippi College School of Law. While she’s always wanted to help others, Sweeney didn’t always think law was the right avenue to do that. “I thought lawyers were sort of uptight, really serious all the time, wearing the dark colors. And that’s not me.”

Instead, Sweeney integrated her outgoing personality and style to become the kind of lawyer she wanted to be, choosing to focus on being a source of comfort for the black community when they’re facing financial difficulties. “I think it’s very important to have a presence in the black community of somebody that looks like them, that understands hey, look I know you have to work two jobs, you have three kids that you have to provide for, but you know what? There are other options. You don’t have to stretch your dollars so much.”

Sweeney’s associate and best friend Gabrielle Lewis recognizes the positive affect of being a part of a minority-run business. “Of course, we’re relatable. They see us as ‘oh okay they look like us.’ Relatable, we can connect with them. They’re able to share information, their story with us and feel comfortable about it.”

Sweeney is currently traveling between Pennsylvania and Mississippi while continuing to service clients in both her Jackson and Gulfport offices.