Transactional practice. Mentorship. Behind-the-scenes work. Innovation. These are all core elements of the legal industry, and in recent years, we added New Jersey Legal Awards categories to recognize the vital role these functions play, and how adept many of the Garden State’s lawyers are at these functions. The additions came in the form of the Dealmakers, Mentors, Unsung Heroes and Innovators categories. (There was also a brief, misguided attempt at a “Grinders” category, which we quickly abandoned, thanks to the market’s rightful puzzlement. At least we can have a laugh.)
The overarching theme is that we recognize that law practice involves many elements. It isn’t only litigation, though of course we honor the important work done in that area—the New Jersey trial and appellate lawyers we know by name have earned those reputations. Law practice is the development of future generations. It is brief writing and deposition work. It is the successful building, management and growth of a law firm. It is leadership.
