We believe in fostering an inclusive community where every individual is valued and empowered to contribute, creating a vibrant environment that enriches our collective experience.
We believe in fostering an inclusive community where every individual is valued and empowered to contribute, creating a vibrant environment that enriches our collective experience.
Dedicated to continuously building and maintaining an inclusive, diverse workforce.
Our firm actively recruits talented attorneys and staff with wide-ranging backgrounds to complement our strengths and contribute to the firm’s future at the highest levels. We aim to reflect the diversity of the clients and communities we serve and the diversity of the judges, jurors, and other individuals in the jurisdictions in which we practice.
SMB Secures 2023–2024 Mansfield Rule Certification
The firm has achieved Mansfield Certification for 2023–24. The 12-month program, facilitated by The Diversity Lab, is designed to increase diversity and expand the pool of candidates considered for entry-level and lateral attorney positions, leadership roles, equity partner promotions, and client connections within the firm. SMB has also reaffirmed its commitment to Mansfield Certification for 2024-2025.
Acknowledged by clients for our continuous dedication to DEI
Many clients have recognized SMB for its efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Recently, SMB was also included in Constellation’s 2024 DEI Honor Roll. This Honor Roll acknowledges important business partners for their initiatives in establishing and advancing DEI policies in the workplace, as well as for including diverse employees in key roles on account teams.
Advocating for DE&I in the Legal Profession
SMB has proudly supported a variety of organizations and associations over the years, including the Minority Corporate Counsel, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Cabrini Green Legal Assistance, the Black Women Lawyers’ Association, CARPLS, and the Defense Research Institute. Additionally, firm attorneys are active members of several organizations, such as the Cook County Bar Association, the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois, the Black Men Lawyers’ Association, and the Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.
At SMB, we strive to make a meaningful impact by supporting charitable initiatives and giving back through various programs that foster education, promote social justice, and assist those in need.
Our attorneys and staff actively participate in both local and national programs, including Feeding America, Lawyers Lend-A-Hand to Youth, Pedal the Cause, the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, Feed My Starving Children, CTK Corporate Work Study Program, and more.
SMB recognizes its obligation and duty to assist in providing access to justice.
Many of our attorneys actively engage in pro bono work, providing legal services to underserved communities through various organizations nationwide. Our attorneys often pursue opportunities that support their individual passions, including the arts, athletics, and animal welfare efforts.
SMB aims to cultivate a strong sense of alum pride and community by giving back to the institutions that shaped our team’s education.
Our attorneys frequently return to their universities and law schools to participate in panels, sharing insights from their career journeys and offering valuable advice to undergraduates. They also serve on boards and committees dedicated to community development and growth. The impact of these efforts is further strengthened by our expansive network of alums nationwide, fostering opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and ongoing success.
SMB hosts several events yearly to support various causes, benefiting our clients, potential partners, and others who share our passion for giving back to the community.
Among these is our annual Sound of Summer event, organized by the firm’s Entertainment and Media Law Group. These events foster meaningful connections and create valuable opportunities to strengthen our partnerships. Additionally, we collaborate with local organizations and legal community members to enhance our impact and pursue shared goals.
Every year, SMB proudly sponsors, collaborates with, and speaks at more than 50 events and organizations nationwide. Our attorneys are also active members of over 100 prestigious affiliations and organizations.
At SMB, we are deeply committed to supporting veterans, both within our firm and in the community.
We take pride in having veterans on our legal team, as they bring discipline, dedication, and unique perspectives to the practice of law. Beyond employing veterans, we actively support initiatives and organizations focused on helping veterans, acknowledging their significant value to society. We will continually strive to give back to those who have served our country.