A Nashville Legal Legacy
History of Manson Johnson Conner
Founded in 1976, Manson Johnson Conner PLLC stands as a pillar of integrity, advocacy, and community empowerment in Tennessee's legal landscape.
From 1976 to Today
A Timeline of Leadership and Service
1976: A Firm is Born
Richard Manson, a visionary Nashville attorney, establishes the law firm with a mission: deliver justice and trusted counsel to those often overlooked by the legal system. As one of Nashville's early African-American law firms, Manson Johnson Conner's West End office quickly becomes a hub for both business and community leaders seeking guidance.
1980s-1990s: Building Community and Breaking Ground
The firm gains recognition for its work in Nashville real estate, representing first-time homebuyers and small business owners. MJC attorneys advocate for equal access and economic empowerment while handling major civil rights cases and forging deep ties within Tennessee's African-American professional circles.
2000s: Expanding Impact, Adding Offices
With client needs growing, the firm opens offices in Washington, D.C. and Freetown, Sierra Leone, expanding its reach to international business, immigration, and diaspora communities. The team grows to include attorneys skilled in litigation, estate planning, and emerging practice areas.
2010s-Today: Bridging Legacy to Modern Practice
Now serving clients statewide, Manson Johnson Conner operates from the heart of Nashville's Midtown/West End-minutes from downtown courts and the civic corridor. The firm's archive of black-and-white photos tells a story of decades-long client relationships, courtroom victories, and counsel to prominent community leaders. With a commitment to innovation and direct communication, MJC continues to guide clients in business, litigation, estate planning, and sports & entertainment law.
Shaping Access, Equity, and Opportunity Statewide
- Helped thousands of Tennesseans buy homes, launch businesses, and protect their rights through every legal chapter.
- Advocated for fair treatment and progress in the courtroom and beyond-especially for underrepresented clients.
- Supported community growth from Nashville's West End to neighborhoods and courts across Tennessee.
Local Roots, Broader Reach
Nashville Headquarters
Anchored in Midtown/West End, serving clients from all walks of life across Tennessee.
Washington, D.C. Office
Expanding legal and advisory services to national and international matters.
Freetown, Sierra Leone
Connecting U.S. legal services to African business, immigration, and diaspora needs.
Legacy in Focus
A Visual Archive
Richard Manson and President Nelson Mandela
Richard Manson and Reverend Jesse Jackson
Richard Manson and President Bill Clinton
Andre Johnson, Richard Manson, and Johnnie Cochran
Richard Manson with Grammy Award-Winning Artists, Bobby Brown and Whitney Houston
Richard Manson and Muhammed Ali
Isaac Conner and Former First Lady and Senator Hillary Clinton
Chudi Echetebu and Michelle Bailey, Media Executive and Founder of The HCBU Honors Foundation and Awards Ceremony
Richard Manson and Tennessee Congressman Jim Cooper
Richard Manson and
Richard Manson and Roland S. Martin
Richard Manson and Legendary Civil Rights Activist Rosa Parks (Attorney Gregory Reed also pictured)
Richard Manson and Condoleeza Rice
Richard Manson with President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush
Andre Johnson and Richard Manson after Summitting Africa's Highest Peak, Mt. Kilamanjaro
Richard Manson and President Nelson Mandela
Carrying Forward a Tradition of Service
Manson Johnson Conner remains dedicated to representing individuals, families, and businesses with clarity, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose. Our story is built on lasting relationships, direct communication, and a proven ability to guide clients through life's pivotal legal moments.
Ready When You Are
Legacy You Can Verify. Counsel You Can Use.
Start a conversation with Manson Johnson Conner and see how nearly five decades of experience can serve your needs today-locally and beyond.