ATLANTA – Nov. 4, 2016 – The international law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP, announced that John R. Richards has been named to the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s “40 Under 40” list for 2016. Richards, a shareholder in the Labor & Employment Group in the firm’s Atlanta office, is recognized primarily for his work toward the advancement of civil rights for LGBT individuals and full inclusion for LGBT lawyers.
Atlanta Business Chronicle’s annual “40 Under 40” list spotlights young professionals who make significant career achievements and have demonstrated social responsibility. Those selected are featured in a special section published by the Atlanta Business Chronicle and honored at a reception on Nov. 3 at American Spirit Works.
“At my core, my passion stems from the fact that when you create a diverse and inclusive workplace – where individuals feel safe to come out and be who they are – that honesty and authenticity translates into happiness and productivity, and thereby allows you to provide the highest level of client service.” Richards stated.
Richards’ efforts have been pivotal in furthering the visibility, voice, and advancement of LGBT lawyers not only within the firm, but for clients and the broader legal and business community. He serves as the firm’s representative on the Out Leadership Council and spearheaded Greenberg Traurig’s sponsorship of the Out Leadership Summit in 2015 and 2016, which brings together senior LGBT leaders at the world’s most influential companies to drive the global business case for equality. Additionally, Richards is the youngest serving member on the National Board of Lambda Legal, the nation's oldest and largest legal organization working for the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, and people with HIV/AIDS.
At Greenberg Traurig, Richards is focused on its Labor & Employment Practice and the firm’s retail industry initiative. He has successfully defended employers in collective actions arising under the FLSA; single-plaintiff and/or class claims of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and/or constructive discharge brought in state and federal courts and administrative agencies; and individual actions arising under the FMLA. He regularly counsels his clients, many of whom are global and/or nationwide retailers, on significant employment issues.
“John is one of the firm’s most passionate young attorneys,” said the firm’s Atlanta Managing Shareholder Theodore I. Blum. "He believes strongly in establishing equality for the LGBT community in the legal profession and beyond, and his efforts have been efficacious in accomplishing exactly that. John’s future with the firm is certainly a bright one, and as this award indicates, he’s off to a great start. On behalf of the entire firm, I congratulate John on achieving one of our city’s most prestigious honors for young professionals.”
About Greenberg Traurig, LLP
Greenberg Traurig, LLP (GTLaw) has more than 2,000 attorneys in 38 offices in the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East and is celebrating its 50th anniversary. One firm worldwide, GTLaw has been recognized for its philanthropic giving, was named the largest firm in the U.S. by Law360 in 2017, and among the Top 20 on the 2016 Am Law Global 100. Web: www.gtlaw.com Twitter: @GT_Law.