It is with great pride that Wood Smith Henning & Berman announces Catherine Deter, a nationally recognized litigation attorney, has been named the CLM Professional of the Year - Outside Defense Counsel Young Professional. This outstanding honor showcases her exceptional contributions to the legal profession.
Previously recognized as a Phenom Under 40 by CLM, Deter continues to break barriers in the legal profession. Her leadership and strategic approach to high-stakes litigation have earned her a reputation for excellence, particularly in navigating multi-jurisdictional cases and fostering collaboration among legal professionals at all levels.
"This recognition is a testament to Catherine's ability to not only excel in the courtroom but also uplift and mentor the next generation of attorneys," said Sam McDermott, managing partner of the Orange County office. "Her dedication to professional growth and inclusivity is shaping the future of our industry."
Deter's impact extends beyond her casework- she is deeply committed to advancing diversity in the legal profession and cultivating an environment where young attorneys thrive.
"I am incredibly honored to receive this award from CLM," said Deter. "Success in this field is never a solo effort. It's built on strong teams, great mentors, and shared commitment to continuous learning and growth. I'm proud to be a part of WSHB and a profession that is evolving for the better."
WSHB congratulates Catherine on this amazing award!
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Experience the power of a proven industry leader in the law. Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) is renowned globally for our exceptional trial results and expertise in handling complex litigation. With our nationwide network of over 500 lawyers across 42 office locations, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive litigation and counsel to both public and private companies. From start-ups to Fortune 100 corporations, we deliver unrivaled legal representation that consistently achieves favorable outcomes for our clients.
At WSHB, our strength lies in our diverse and accomplished team of attorneys. We boast thought leaders and defense specialists in over 41 fields of practice, covering an extensive range of specialties. Founded in 1997, we are proud to be among the top ten law firms in the nation for diversity, female partners, female lawyers, and Hispanic lawyers. This rich tapestry of diversity forms the foundation of our success when presenting cases to juries of our peers, ensuring we understand the unique nuances underlying each claim.
Our expansive geographic footprint allows us to provide effective and efficient representation to clients nationwide, regardless of their location, background, or legal expertise. By prioritizing strategic and cost-effective approaches to litigation, our dedicated attorneys work tirelessly to protect the interests of our clients. We have a track record of success, securing numerous victories such as summary judgments and defense verdicts on behalf of our clients. As a trial firm, we have taken over 2,000 cases to verdict, making us well-equipped to handle even the most complex and high-stakes litigation matters across the country.