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Moss & Barnett is pleased to announce that the firm has been recognized in the Minnesota Lawyer In the Lead recognition program as a "Best Legacy Law Firm in Minnesota." This program recognizes accomplished law firms with a long history in the region that demonstrate excellence across a broad spectrum of criteria, including prolonged success and an ability to successfully navigate changing client needs, legal developments, technology, economic environments, and strong community engagement.

Learn more, below, about the firm's legacy and history, the firm's core values and vision, how the firm has adapted to changes in the profession, what is unique about the firm's workplace culture, what role community engagement and corporate social responsibility play at the firm, and some key factors that have contributed to the firm's ability to stay competitive. These responses were submitted to Minnesota Lawyer in response to their request for more information about the firm for inclusion in the In the Lead Best Legacy Law Firms in Minnesota recognition program.

Firm Description:
Moss & Barnett is a multidisciplinary client-centered law firm providing a full range of legal services to business and private clients in Minnesota, the Upper Midwest, and beyond.

What inspired the founding of your law firm, and what was its original mission? 
Moss & Barnett traces its history to 1892, when Charles Rollin Fowler opened his law office, forerunner of Moss & Barnett, at 236 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis. The firm grew with its clients to become a multi-specialty firm. ln 1983, the firm assumed its present name with the merger of two firms. Our mission is to provide our clients with legal services built on a foundation of dedication, quality, and integrity.

What were the most significant milestones or turning points in the firm's 25+ years in business?
In 1919, charter members of the newly incorporated Hennepin County Bar Association included Moss & Barnett's Paul Thompson and Abbott Fletcher. In 1947, Elsie Wolf joined Moss & Barnett, the second female attorney admitted to a major Minnesota law firm. In 1955, the now iconic Blue Cross symbol was first registered by Moss & Barnett's Abbott Fletcher. In 1999, Ann Newhall was elected Moss & Barnett president, one of the first female law firm leaders in the Upper Midwest. These are just a few of many, many milestones.

How have your core values and vision influenced the way your firm operates?
Our clients’ needs and interests are our highest priority. We fulfill that duty through our commitment to our clients and to each other. We maintain high ethical standards, provide opportunities for professional development, and constantly improve our efficiency and expertise – all with the goal of achieving outstanding results for businesses and individuals.

How has your firm adapted to changes in the profession or economic challenges over the years?
While some aspects of the practice of law have changed in the 133 years since the founding of Moss & Barnett, the core of what it means to be a Moss & Barnett lawyer remains the same: We provide superior service to every client. While new innovations and technology have improved how we go about that task, we stay grounded in the same client-centered mindset we have cultivated for over a century.

What's unique about your workplace culture that has contributed to your longevity?
Our culture and benefits help foster employment longevity. Our employees know they are valued. Many of our employees have spent their entire careers with us. Each year we celebrate 20, 30, and 40+ year milestones. Every member of our firm is deeply integrated into our culture and clients, which in turn fosters a commitment to our mission to deliver superior client service. It is not uncommon for former employees to return to us after experiencing working in other firm environments.

What role does community engagement or corporate social responsibility play in your firm?
Our attorneys and staff have shown a consistent commitment to giving back to the community, through volunteer service and financial support to various organizations located in Minnesota and beyond. In addition to our wide-ranging charitable work through our M&B Cares philanthropic initiative, we strive to increase access to legal services for underserved communities while also leading and participating in numerous bar committees and organizations for the improvement of the profession.

What are the key factors that have contributed to your firm's ability to stay competitive?
The depth of our relationships with our clients has been a key driver of our success. We strive to be strategic partners and provide value that extends far beyond an individual matter. Through deep, long-standing relationships, we invest in our clients and as they achieve their goals, so do we.