Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP: Company Profile

Background

Overview

Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP (SGR) is a full-service, international law firm founded in 1893 in Atlanta, Georgia. The firm provides legal counsel to regional, national, and global businesses across more than 50 specialized practice areas. SGR operates 14 offices worldwide, including locations in Atlanta, Austin, Charlotte, Chicago, Jacksonville, London, Los Angeles, Miami, Munich, New York, Southampton, Springfield, Tampa, and Washington, D.C.

Mission and Vision

SGR is committed to delivering swift, expert, and cost-effective legal support to its clients. The firm focuses on building long-term relationships by providing high-quality legal services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

Primary Area of Focus

The firm's primary areas of focus include corporate transactions, litigation, intellectual property, aviation, banking, real estate, insurance/reinsurance, construction, employment law, international law, and employee benefits and executive compensation.

Industry Significance

SGR is recognized for its strong presence in key markets and its ability to handle complex legal matters across various industries. The firm's strategic growth initiatives, including mergers and expansions, have enhanced its capabilities and market position.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

SGR aims to expand its geographic footprint, enhance its service offerings, and strengthen its position in key markets through strategic mergers and acquisitions. The firm focuses on providing comprehensive legal services that address the evolving needs of its diverse client base.

Specific Areas of Specialization

The firm's specialized practice areas include:

Corporate Transactions

Litigation

Intellectual Property

Aviation

Banking

Real Estate

Insurance/Reinsurance

Construction

Employment Law

International Law

Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation

Key Technologies Utilized

SGR leverages advanced legal technologies to enhance efficiency, including:

Document management systems

Legal research tools

E-discovery platforms

Client collaboration portals

Primary Markets Targeted

The firm serves clients across various industries, including:

Aviation

Construction

Energy and Environmental

Entertainment

Financial Services

Healthcare

Hospitality

Manufacturing

Real Estate

Technology

Financials and Funding

Funding History

SGR is a privately held partnership and does not publicly disclose detailed financial information. The firm has grown through strategic mergers and acquisitions, enhancing its capabilities and market presence.

Recent Funding Rounds

As a privately held firm, SGR does not engage in public funding rounds. Its growth has been driven by internal resources and strategic partnerships.

Notable Investors

SGR does not have external investors, as it operates as a partnership.

Utilization of Capital

The firm's capital is utilized for:

Expanding office locations

Enhancing technological infrastructure

Supporting strategic mergers and acquisitions

Investing in professional development and training

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

SGR's growth strategy includes:

Identifying potential merger and acquisition targets to expand practice areas and geographic reach

Developing new service offerings to meet client demands

Stages of Development

The firm is in the process of evaluating and integrating recent mergers, including:

Combination with Freeborn & Peters LLP in 2023

Merger with Figliulo & Silverman in 2022

Combination with ABL Law in 2024

Target Conditions

SGR targets firms that:

Complement its existing practice areas

Enhance its geographic presence

Share a similar cultural and operational ethos

Anticipated Milestones

The firm anticipates:

Successful integration of new offices and practices

Expansion into new markets

Enhanced service offerings for clients

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

SGR utilizes proprietary systems for:

Client relationship management

Document automation

Billing and accounting

Significant Scientific Methods

The firm employs:

Data analytics for case strategy

Predictive modeling for litigation outcomes

AI-Driven Capabilities

SGR integrates AI technologies in:

Contract review and analysis

Legal research and case law analysis

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Stephen M. Forte: Managing Partner and Chair of the Executive Committee

Oversees the firm's strategic direction and operations

Leads the integration of new practices and offices

Jeffrey L. Bash: Chief Operating Officer

Manages the firm's administrative functions

Ensures operational efficiency across all offices

Jason P. Stearns: Managing Partner of the Tampa Office

Leads the firm's expansion in the Florida market

Focuses on developing client relationships and business growth

Leadership Changes

In 2023, SGR combined with Freeborn & Peters LLP, leading to the appointment of new leadership in the Tampa office, with Jason P. Stearns as the new office managing partner.