Wood Smith Henning & Berman LLP is proud to announce its selection to the Los Angeles Business Journal’s “Leaders of Influence: Most Admired Law Firms to Work For” list. This distinguished honor recognizes only 50 firms across the region that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to fostering positive, inclusive, and growth-oriented environments for attorneys and staff.
The recognition highlights WSHB’s unwavering dedication to building a workplace where legal excellence is matched by a culture that supports professional development, well-being, and collaboration. As the legal landscape continues to shift, LABJ’s award underscores the firm’s success in cultivating a dynamic environment where top talent thrives and clients benefit from the strength of its people.
Firms were selected based on nominations submitted to LABJ and evaluated by the publication’s editorial team. Honorees were chosen for their meaningful contributions to the legal field and the broader Los Angeles community—including leadership, service, innovation, and demonstrated support for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Founding Partner Stephen Henning expressed pride in the achievement: “We are deeply honored by this recognition from the Los Angeles Business Journal. Since day one, our mission has been to build a firm where people feel supported, valued, and empowered. This award affirms the culture we have intentionally nurtured and the values we proudly uphold.”
Firmwide Managing Partner Stewart Reid emphasized the importance of WSHB’s people-first approach: “What sets WSHB apart is our steadfast commitment to our people. When our team members are empowered—professionally, personally, and creatively—the results are extraordinary. Being named one of the most admired law firms to work for is a testament to the dedication, spirit, and excellence of everyone at WSHB.”
Adding to the celebration, WSHB Partner Frances O’Meara, who was recently honored by CLM as the 2025 Outside Counsel – Professional of the Year, offered her perspective: “This recognition truly reflects the heart of who we are. WSHB is a place where lawyers are encouraged to lead, innovate, and grow. I have been supported at every stage of my career, and the firm’s belief in its people is exactly what fuels our success and the outstanding results we achieve for clients.”
The Los Angeles Business Journal’s “Most Admired Law Firms” list highlights organizations that champion mentorship, diversity initiatives, leadership development, and a collaborative culture—attributes that define WSHB’s identity and drive its long-term success.
WSHB is honored to be listed among this year’s elite group of firms and remains committed to cultivating a workplace where talent thrives, ideas are elevated, and its core values are reflected in the everyday life of the firm.
Wood Smith Henning & Berman: Your Trusted Partner
Experience the power of a proven industry leader in the law. Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) is renowned globally for our exceptional trial results and expertise in handling complex litigation. With our nationwide network of over 500 lawyers across 43 office locations, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive litigation and counsel to both public and private companies. From start-ups to Fortune 100 corporations, we deliver unrivaled legal representation that consistently achieves favorable outcomes for our clients.
At WSHB, our strength lies in our diverse and accomplished team of attorneys. We boast thought leaders and defense specialists in over 41 fields of practice, covering an extensive range of specialties. Founded in 1997, we are proud to be among the top ten law firms in the nation for diversity, female partners, female lawyers, and Hispanic lawyers. This rich tapestry of diversity forms the foundation of our success when presenting cases to juries of our peers, ensuring we understand the unique nuances underlying each claim.
Our expansive geographic footprint allows us to provide effective and efficient representation to clients nationwide, regardless of their location, background, or legal expertise. By prioritizing strategic and cost-effective approaches to litigation, our dedicated attorneys work tirelessly to protect the interests of our clients. We have a track record of success, securing numerous victories such as summary judgments and defense verdicts on behalf of our clients. As a trial firm, we have taken over 2,000 cases to verdict, making us well-equipped to handle even the most complex and high-stakes litigation matters across the country.