A Message From the Firm About the Racism Rampant in Our Nation

George Floyd is the latest in a string of tragic deaths symbolizing the racial division that continues to exist in our society. The importance of equality and respect for the rule of law are pillars of our legal system and are among the key principles that guide our attorneys every day. Racism has no place in our hearts and should have no place of acceptance in our society. Norris McLaughlin condemns racism of any kind and vows to keep listening and learning from the tragedies of the past to ensure we deliver on a lifetime promise of justice and equality for all.

We recognize that often times, change has to begin in our own house, so we are challenging our Diversity Committee to help our firm find new ways to introduce diversity of thought and expression to our practice of law.

Further, as the first-ever Public Defender in Somerset County and a tireless advocate for justice and equality throughout his 60-year career, we are looking at ways to turn our thirst for activism on this issue into a meaningful platform that will honor the memory of our recently-departed longtime partner, friend, and founding member of our firm, Richard A. Norris, who passed away on May 31, 2020.  Stay tuned for more information about the specific details of this program.

Questions or comments about the statement above should be directed to our Chairman, John N. Vanarthos.

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