Jerry Blackwell, a distinguished figure in the legal world, stands at the intersection of law, corporate leadership, and social justice. Born and raised in Kannapolis, North Carolina, Jerry has traversed a remarkable journey from his humble beginnings to becoming a prominent American corporate lawyer, meditation coach, youth mentor, and legal entrepreneur hailing from Minnesota. His commitment to justice, coupled with a soft-spoken demeanor, has defined his character throughout his career.
Early Life, Family, Education
Jerry Blackwell emerged into a world of seven siblings, growing up in Kannapolis, North Carolina. Despite being a private and lowkey individual, he has lived across various locations in Minnesota, from Saint Paul to Eden Prairie, and currently resides in Minneapolis with his wife. The family’s privacy became paramount after Jerry faced numerous death threats following his involvement in the high-profile Derek Chauvin trial.
Jerry’s journey toward a legal career began with his passion for reading, fueled by encouragement from his mother. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1984, graduating on a merit-based scholarship. Subsequently, he earned his Juris Doctor in Law from the same institution in 1987. Blackwell’s legal acumen is acknowledged with his admission to practice in the U.S. Court of Appeals, the U.S. District Court, and the District of Minnesota.
Career, Salary, and Net Worth
In 1986, Jerry initiated his career at the Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi Law Firm in Minnesota. After two decades, he embarked on a new venture, co-founding Blackwell Burke P.A. with late attorney Martin ‘Skip’ Burkey in 2006. Currently serving as the firm’s Head Attorney, Chairman, and CEO, Blackwell Burke P.A. has handled a myriad of cases, representing companies across 47 U.S. states and multiple countries globally.
The firm boasts a roster of high-profile clients, including General Mills, 3M, Shell Oil, IBM, and Cargill. Jerry’s commitment to justice is further evidenced by his role as a founder of the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers (MABL). In a notable case in June 2020, Jerry secured a Posthumous Pardon for Max Mason, a former African-American circus worker wrongfully convicted in 1920.
Jerry Blackwell returned to the spotlight in 2021 when he was chosen to represent the prosecution in the trial of Officer Derek Chauvin. The case, centered around the tragic death of George Floyd in May 2020, captured global attention, sparking widespread protests for racial justice. Chauvin was found guilty of murder, marking a significant moment in the fight for justice and accountability.
As of 2023, Jerry Blackwell, at the age of 61, continues to leave an indelible mark on the legal landscape, seamlessly balancing a successful career with a commitment to social justice. His journey stands as a testament to the power of resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of justice in the face of formidable challenges.
