Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom has been recognized in Bloomberg Law’s Pro Bono Innovators 2023 edition for its notable contributions to pro bono causes. Their wide-ranging initiatives have not only benefited individuals but have also reshaped landmark legal precedents and forged innovative solutions in the legal landscape.
The firm’s groundbreaking work, which facilitated over $1 million and potential immigration relief for 100 Latino workers detained in an East Tennessee meat processing plant during an immigration raid, demonstrated strategic brilliance and enterprising litigation. The strategic steps ranged from identifying potential defendants and revising claims based on circuit court rulings to extensive discovery processes involving the examination of hundreds of hours of security camera footage. This large-scale project was driven by litigation partner Eben Colby (Bloomberg Law).
Equally impressive was Skadden’s work in helping a client become the first Illinois person to have their prison sentence reconsidered under the state’s SB 2129 amendment. The client, Corzell Cole, served 19 years of a 50-year prison sentence for a crime he did not directly commit. Banking associate Shelisa Thomas spearheaded the strategy which relied on an unconventional alliance with the State’s attorney, building a compelling case that highlighted the legal errors and discrepancies in Cole’s sentencing. The result was a persuasive plea that ultimately secured Cole’s freedom and has paved the way for other potential cases of similar miscarriages of justice.
Skadden’s ongoing commitment to pro bono work continues to leave an indelible mark at the local, national, and global level. Through local action and national litigation, Skadden is setting a necessary precedent for eradicating social injustices and bridging the gap between law and equity.
The team at Skadden is steadfast in dedicating immense time and talent to these cases, evident from the 15,000 hours allocated towards the case of the Latino workers. With an unwavering commitment and a collaborative effort, Skadden has shown that substantial victories for clients can be achieved, despite obstructive litigation tactics from the federal government. Collaborations with other organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center, National Immigration Law Center, and private lawyers have also been instrumental to their success.
Following successful resolution of their matters, the team often celebrates these victories with the clients, families, friends, and the community, highlighting the profound human connection that underpins their every effort.
Through their commendable pro bono work, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom continues to raise the bar for corporate social responsibility in the legal industry, embodying the high standards of professionalism, empathy, and justice.