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Celebrating 125 Years of Carlton Fields

This year, Carlton Fields commemorates an incredible milestone: its 125th anniversary. Established in 1901, the firm has navigated through numerous social and legal shifts, remaining a steadfast beacon of quality and service in the legal sector. Gary Sasso, the firm's CEO, reflected on this achievement by highlighting that "the United States is celebrating its 250th anniversary this year, and Carlton Fields has been around for half that time. This is a testament to our enduring legacy."

A Legacy of Leadership and Inclusion

Carlton Fields' rich history is marked by profound contributions to the legal profession, advocacy for justice, and a commitment to innovation. Key historical milestones include:

• - 1901: Founded by Giddings Mabry, who was inspired by the legal legacy of his father, Milton Mabry, Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice.
• - 1961-1971: The firm paved the way for inclusivity in Florida’s legal landscape by hiring its first Jewish partner, Edward Cutler, and welcoming Sylvia Walbolt, the first female lawyer. Later, Eurich Griffin became the first Black attorney to join a major Florida law firm.
• - 1966-1969: Carlton Fields became one of the early firms to adopt alternative work schedules and incorporated, which enhanced its capacity to provide services to clients.
• - 1967-2025: Expansion into major cities like Orlando, Tallahassee, and New York, which signaled the firm's growing footprint and influence.
• - 1972-1988: Leadership under William Reece Smith Jr. marked a period of remarkable advocacy in promoting justice and access to the law.
• - 1999-2015: The firm championed progressive policies such as providing benefits to domestic partners and actively supporting LGBTQ+ rights.

Celebrating Service and Community Impact

As part of its 125th-anniversary celebration, Carlton Fields is committed to community service across its offices. This initiative complements its longstanding pro bono work dedicated to enhancing access to justice. Sasso emphasized that "we continue to develop the next generation of leaders. Through technology investments and professional development, we prepare our attorneys to meet new challenges head-on."

The firm's dedication to inclusion and strategic growth enables it to cultivate innovative leaders capable of navigating complex legal landscapes. Sasso noted, "Our growth is strategic, not indiscriminate. It focuses on delivering solutions that combine insight, collaboration, and genuine care for our clients."

Vision for the Future

Today, with around 350 attorneys across multiple states, Carlton Fields stands as a national leader in litigation, insurance, and corporate counseling, offering a well-rounded perspective that addresses matters of both local and international significance.

As Carlton Fields celebrates this monumental anniversary, there is a clear sense of gratitude for its historic achievements and excitement for the future. The firm recognizes that while its past has shaped its identity, the evolving legal landscape presents opportunities to innovate and excel in ways previously unimagined.

For more information on Carlton Fields and its rich 125-year history, visit their website.

With a foundation built on excellence and community service, Carlton Fields is poised to continue its legacy of dedication to clients and communities well into the future.