James C. Soper and Philip M. Jelley Celebrate 50 Years with Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley LLP
(Oakland, CA) - Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley (FAB), one of California's oldest law firms, announced today the 50th anniversaries of its Partners James C. Soper and Philip M. Jelley. Soper and Jelley joined the firm in February 1956 and March 1956 respectively, making FAB the only firm for which either has ever worked. The firm will honor its most senior partners' longevity with a dinner celebration in February.
"Phil and Jim's long careers with FAB demonstrate a loyalty and commitment we honor," said Managing Partner Barry H. Epstein. "These two remarkable individuals are woven into the very fabric of the firm."
Mr. Soper and Mr. Jelley still maintain a client list and work only slightly fewer hours than other, younger attorneys at FAB. Their daily presence in the office is a sign of their dedication to the firm and its clients. "I can't think of anything I'd rather be doing," said Soper. "Over the years opportunities with other firms have presented themselves, but I never really gave them serious consideration."
"With a wonderful mix of people and interesting cases, it hasn't really been like work to me," said Jelley. He remains active with several charitable organizations including the San Francisco Opera and Santa Fe Opera. He also spends time traveling and never misses the annual Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon. Mr. Soper relishes the outdoors and spending time with his family in Bozeman, Montana. He hikes and fishes regularly.
According to the State Bar of California, the organization admitted 886 attorneys in 1954, the year Mr. Soper became a member, and 790 attorneys in 1956, the year Mr. Jelley became a member. There are currently 406 active attorneys in California with 52 years of membership in the Bar and 436 active attorneys in the state with 50 years of membership. The State Bar confers special 50th anniversary certificates on recipients each spring.
Mr. Soper and resides in Oakland with his wife, Suzanne. Mr. Jelley resides in Oakland with his wife, Patricia.
About Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley LLP
Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley LLP ("FAB") is a multi-practice law firm providing practical and effective legal and business solutions for clients throughout Northern California. Founded in 1883, the firm provides a broad array of legal services to its local and national clients. FAB attorneys consistently receive recognition from their clients, peers and the media as leaders in their fields.