We believe diversity and equality bring tangible value to our communities. As we considered ways we could better support our neighbors, we developed Balch Business Boost, a program to support entrepreneurs of color and/or women-owned businesses and start-ups by providing free or low-cost legal services. 

We are undertaking this effort to help entrepreneurs and businesses thrive, which in turn benefits our entire economy. The program leverages the experience and talents of a full-service law firm to help emerging and established minority- and women-owned businesses navigate legal and entrepreneurial challenges to building and sustaining success, ultimately helping these businesses fuel growth, eliminate barriers and spark momentum. Through this program, we aim to promote entrepreneurship and economic growth that will unlock the potential for advancement for many across our footprint.

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To encourage more diversity in the legal profession, Balch & Bingham created a signature program that provides future lawyers from underrepresented backgrounds with the tools they need to be successful in law school and when launching their careers. In 2011, we hosted our first Boot Camp for Success to equip minority law students with the tools needed to be successful during law school and throughout their future as attorneys. Each year, we invite minority and underrepresented law students from schools across the Southeast to attend a two-day program to gain a deeper understanding of the legal profession and the variety of careers available to law school graduates.

The seminar is led by Balch attorneys, corporate leaders and other accomplished attorneys from a wide variety of backgrounds and career paths who deliver candid presentations and participate in panel discussions about ways students can enhance their academic and professional success while maximizing law school opportunities. Sessions include a mock law class, tips on how to study and be academically successful during the first year of law school, and a session featuring seasoned attorneys sharing advice about the job search process, specifically focused on developing interview skills and avoiding common missteps. The program is named after the late Susan B. Livingston, partner and former chair of the firm’s Diversity Committee.

Balch’s Women’s Initiative is committed to helping women achieve success. We are committed to the retention, professional growth and advancement of our female attorneys. Understanding the unique challenges women face in the workforce, we created a women’s mentoring program to mentor new female attorneys and assist in their overall professional development, while building long-term relationships and lasting legal careers, and advancing leadership of women at Balch.

We are committed to continuing to increase diversity within our communities and actively engage with many initiatives and events. From serving in leadership positions for nonprofits that advance diversity in our communities, to sponsoring activities that celebrate inclusion, we strive to help build diverse communities and to join conversations that celebrate similarities and differences.