Wood Smith Henning & Berman is thrilled to announce Frances O'Meara, partner and nationally recognized attorney, has been named the 2025 CLM Professional of the Year - Outside Defense Counsel Category. This prestigious award recognizes Frances' outstanding contributions to claims and litigation management, her commitment to mentorship and education, and her dedication to advancing diversity and collaboration in the legal industry.
O'Meara is a seasoned litigator who specializes in defending professionals across industries. In addition to securing numerous high-stakes defense verdicts, she has played a key role in shaping legal precedent and educating the next generation of professionals through her work as an instructor at CLM's Claims College and her frequent speaking engagements at CLM conferences nationwide.
"I am deeply honored to receive this award," said O'Meara. "Being recognized by CLM, an organization that has been instrumental in advancing the industry, is truly meaningful. My goal has always been to mentor, educate, and collaborate with my peers to elevate the field of claims and litigation management. This recognition reinforces my commitment to fostering innovation, supporting the next generation of professionals, and contributing to the ongoing evolution of our industry."
Stephen Henning, founding partner of WSHB added, "Frances' impact on the legal profession is profound. She is not only a formidable litigator but also a mentor and leader who has dedicated her career to strengthening the claims and litigation management community. Her expertise, passion, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her truly deserving of this honor. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and look forward to her continued contributions to the profession."
WSHB congratulates Frances on this well-deserved recognition!
Wood Smith Henning & Berman: Your Trusted Partner
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.