Archibald R. Murray was appointed Attorney-in-Chief of The Legal Aid Society—the first African American to lead Legal Aid since its inception. Arch Murray’s unwavering commitment to The Legal Aid Society and its mission spanned more than two decades.

There were many “firsts” in his life. He was the first Black President of the New York State Bar during a time when pro bono work was at an all-time high. He was responsible for ensuring that The Legal Aid Society received federal funding for parole revocation defense representation when he was at the Division of Criminal Justice. He had been honored with many public service awards and honorary degrees far too numerous to mention.

Arch Murray also delighted the hearts of hundreds and hundreds of homeless children over the years when he played Santa Claus at the Society’s annual holiday party for homeless children. He enjoyed making the children smile. However, it was also a very difficult assignment because the very young children, believing he was Santa Claus, would ask him to give them a home
to live in.