4/1/2023

Dilworth Celebrates 90th Anniversary

Since our founding in 1933, Dilworth Paxson LLP has earned a reputation for excellence through its aggressive advocacy of its clients in both litigation and transactions and its precedent-setting, high profile work. While much has changed about our firm and the practice of law since Frank Murdoch, Harry Kalish and H. Douglas Paxson founded Dilworth 90 years ago, there is a lot that remains the same. The Firm continues to rely on the values of providing clients with the highest quality, responsive legal service at a fair price accompanied by a tradition of civic and public service.

As one of the first firms to implement diversity initiatives, Dilworth has fostered a distinct work environment through lateral hires, partner and equity promotions, and educational firm-wide initiatives. The core values that have been the cornerstone of our firm, such as integrity, commitment, inclusiveness, innovation and service, will be what carry us forward into the next 90 years.

“90 years ago, three young lawyers in Philadelphia, combined their practices to start a law firm then known as Murdoch, Paxson & Kalish,” said Dilworth Chairman Larry McMichael. “This past Friday, The firm hosted a gala at the Barnes Foundation to celebrate the 90th anniversary of this historic event. I was delighted to witness our partners, lawyers and staff enjoying the festivities. But a party is only the start. Throughout the year, the firm will be making contributions to a number of community organizations to commemorate our 90 years of service to the Philadelphia region.”

In commemoration of our 90 years of service, Dilworth has committed to a series of charitable activities, with additional initiatives to be announced throughout the year. Among these is an installation honoring William T. Coleman, Jr. at the National Constitution Center. A trailblazing civil rights leader, Coleman broke the color barrier in Philadelphia when he joined Dilworth in 1952. Coleman would go on to co-counsel with Thurgood Marshall in briefing and arguing the historic Brown v. Board of Education case, be appointed Secretary of Transportation and receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

For more about Dilworth’s history, including interviews with current and former firm leaders and a timeline of firm history that includes notable events, milestones and more, please click the links below.