On October 25, Knobbe Martens will be honored as “Law Firm of the Year” by the Constitutional Rights Foundation, Orange County (CRF-OC) at the nonprofit organization’s Annual Benefit in Costa Mesa.
The firm has been an ardent supporter of CRF-OC, which is dedicated to promoting civic literacy, youth leadership and career awareness among Orange County teens, since 2009. Many Knobbe Martens attorneys volunteer in various capacities, including as mock trial score keepers and Constitution Day presenters, in support of CRF-OC’s goal of helping Orange County youth better understand the U.S. Constitution and the American legal system.
Since 1981, the nonpartisan organization has organized and operated high-quality, interactive civic and law-related education programs that connect high schools directly with professionals and community leaders. CRF-OC has a long tradition of honoring firms who have contributed to its success and civic education programs.
“Winning an award is always an honor, but this one is particularly rewarding because it’s not about professional accolades, our practice, or client service. It’s about Knobbe Martens’ commitment to serving the local community through an organization whose innovative programs have positively impacted so many lives,” said Knobbe Martens partner Baraa Kahf, who will accept the award on the firm’s behalf. “We believe it’s vital to give our youth the opportunity to experience the American legal system from the perspective of an attorney, judge, or juror first-hand. Such immersive experiences help them develop a deeper understanding of the system, to the benefit of us all.”
In addition to the Mock Trial program, which attracts approximately 800 area teenagers annually, CRF-OC carries out a unique juvenile crime diversion program. Known as “Peer Court,” it provides juvenile offenders who have committed non-violent misdemeanors an opportunity to have their cases heard before a jury of their peers, providing both sides with an invaluable opportunity to experience the real-life legal system in action.