Hanson Bridgett Takes Home Innovation in Diversity & Inclusion Award From The Recorder’s 2023 California Legal Awards

November 6, 2023 (San Francisco, CA) – Hanson Bridgett LLP won the Innovation in Diversity & Inclusion award at The Recorder’s 2023 California Legal Awards. The award ceremony took place on November 2, at the Westin in San Francisco. With more than 350 submissions overall and 11 different award categories, the California Legal Awards celebrate the achievements of lawyers and companies leading technology, innovation, and the profession as a whole. 

“This award is particularly meaningful,” said Managing Partner Kristina Lawson, “because we know the criteria for consideration goes well beyond having buzzworthy initiatives in place – this award is about the remarkable impact and concrete results we’ve achieved.” 

The first law firm to be B Corp certified, Hanson Bridgett has always taken an innovative approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As noted by Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer (CDEIO), Jennifer Martinez, Hanson Bridgett's DEI efforts have existed in some form since the early 1990s. "While those programs and initiatives have changed and grown over the years, we are not new to this work—it’s part of the DNA of our firm," said Martinez.  "We’ve always felt it important to acknowledge the systemic barriers in the legal profession faced by attorneys from underrepresented groups and to invest in initiatives that help to level the playing field, such as mentoring, affinity group support, leadership programs, and career development." 

The most long-standing and successful DEI initiative at Hanson Bridgett has been the Annual 1L Interview Workshop, which is promoted through diverse student organizations at law schools in California. 2023 will mark the 21st annual Workshop. Hanson Bridgett recently received Diversity Lab’s Mansfield Certified Plus designation, for the third year in a row, and remains accountable and committed to taking real action toward DEI.  

About Hanson Bridgett LLP

Hanson Bridgett LLP is a full service AmLaw 200 law firm with more than 200 attorneys across California. Creating a diverse workforce by fostering an atmosphere of belonging and intentional support has been a priority at Hanson Bridgett since its founding in 1958. We are dedicated to creating an environment that provides opportunities for people with varied backgrounds, both for attorneys and administrative professionals. We are also committed to the communities where our employees live and work and consider it part of our professional obligation to serve justice by encouraging and supporting pro bono and social impact work.

For media inquiries contact:

Patrick L. Clos
Communications Manager
Hanson Bridgett LLP
415-995-5098