CREATING A CULTURE OF OPPORTUNITY AND BELONGING

Our core values are more than aspirational—they shape how we support and develop our team. We are committed to fostering a workplace built on mutual respect, professional growth, and opportunities for every individual to contribute and succeed.

We are committed to building a strong, dynamic team across all practice areas—one that reflects the clients and communities we serve. By fostering a workplace where individuals of all backgrounds are valued and supported, we strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional legal services throughout Delaware.

A Stronger, More Collaborative Workplace

At Morris James, we believe that our strength comes from the diverse perspectives, experiences, and talents of our team. We are committed to fostering an environment where every individual is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

A Culture of Respect and Opportunity

We recognize that the best ideas emerge when people from different backgrounds collaborate. Our firm is dedicated to creating a workplace where individuals are supported in their professional growth and provided with meaningful opportunities to contribute.

Investing in People, Strengthening Our Firm

Our commitment to mentorship, professional development, and leadership advancement ensures that every team member has the resources and support to excel. We cultivate an environment where talent and dedication—not background or circumstance—are the keys to success.

Reflecting the Communities We Serve

As a firm deeply rooted in Delaware, we believe our workforce should reflect the communities we represent. Our commitment to hiring, retaining, and promoting a broad range of professionals allows us to better understand and serve our clients.

A Workplace Where Everyone Belongs

We are dedicated to maintaining a workplace built on mutual respect and collaboration. By valuing each individual’s contributions, we create an environment where innovation thrives and our collective success is strengthened.

Advancing Access and Opportunity in Law

Delaware Minority Supplemental Bar Review Course

Morris James attorneys have long supported this important initiative to help law school graduates from underrepresented backgrounds prepare for the Delaware Bar Exam. Through mentorship and instruction, we aim to help increase opportunity and support those seeking to build careers in Delaware’s legal community. Wilson A. Gualpa currently leads the bar course.

Delaware State Bar Association

LGBTQ+ Section
This section focuses on legal issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community and provides a forum for education, advocacy, and engagement among members of the Delaware Bar.

Multicultural Judges and Lawyers Section
Morris James is a proud sponsor of ongoing programs hosted by this section, including the annual Haile L. Alford Memorial Breakfast honoring the late Judge Alford. The section promotes dialogue and professional support across cultures and backgrounds. Wilson A. Gualpa currently serves on its Advisory Board.

Women and the Law Section
Dedicated to improving the delivery of legal services to women and advancing the role of women in the legal profession, this section provides resources, networking, and programming for members of the Delaware Bar.

Delaware State University

To commemorate its 90th anniversary, Morris James partnered with Delaware State University’s Law Studies program to support students pursuing legal careers. The firm provided a $10,000 gift to help underwrite LSAT fees and prep course tuition, removing financial barriers to law school admission. In addition to this support, Morris James offers mentorship and professional development opportunities to DSU Law Studies students throughout their undergraduate experience. Read more.

Street Law, Inc. Program

Through our participation in the Street Law, Inc. program, Morris James offers student clerkship opportunities to Howard High School students in Wilmington. This initiative introduces students to the legal profession by connecting them with hands-on experience in a law firm environment. Originally developed by Georgetown University law students, Street Law has become a national program helping young people explore legal careers and better understand the justice system.

Empowering Our Communities

Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware

Morris James attorneys are actively involved in supporting the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware, which provides young people across the state with safe spaces, mentoring, and development opportunities. Lewis Lazarus serves on the statewide Board and its Executive Committee, Tyler O’Connell serves on the Board of Trustees, and Mike Owen chairs the Wilmington Unit Board in addition to serving as a Trustee

Our Corporate/M&A lawyers, Vince Cannizzaro and Justin Larsen, recently provided pro bono legal counsel to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware, modernizing its Articles of Incorporation and bylaws. Their work enhances the organization’s financial stability and operational framework, ensuring it can continue to serve Delaware’s youth for years to come.

Culture Restoration Project

Morris James provided a $10,000 gift to the Culture Restoration Project, a Wilmington-based organization focused on building critical thinking and social awareness in youth through culturally relevant programming. This support reflects the firm’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and meaningful dialogue around equity and justice.

Delaware Minority Job Fair

This annual job fair brings together law firms, corporations, and public sector employers to connect with talented law students from a variety of backgrounds. As a participating employer, Morris James supports efforts to expand access to legal careers and strengthen the pipeline of future professionals in the Delaware Bar.

Latin American Community Center

Morris James proudly supports the Latin American Community Center and its mission to empower the Latinx community through education, advocacy, and partnerships. In addition to ongoing sponsorship, Wilson Gualpa serves on the organization’s Board of Directors, helping to advance programs that strengthen families and promote opportunity across Wilmington.

NAMI Delaware

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Delaware is a grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. Morris James is a longstanding supporter of NAMI Delaware and its mission. Retired partner Edward McNally serves on the Board of Directors and was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023 for his enduring commitment and service.

 

SL24 Unlocke the Light

Morris James has supported SL24 since its founding. The organization is dedicated to supporting youth mental health by providing resources for students facing depression, self-injury, and suicide. Kevin Healy serves on the Board of Directors, helping advance its mission to promote wellness, resilience, and open conversations about mental health.

Sojourners's Place

Morris James supports Sojourners’ Place through sponsorships and volunteer engagement. The organization provides shelter and individualized services to people experiencing homelessness in Delaware, helping residents rebuild their lives and return to the community with stability and independence.

The ALLEI Program

Through the American Law and Legal English Institute (ALLEI) at the University of Delaware, Morris James hosts visiting judges, lawyers, and law students from around the world. These exchanges offer opportunities to discuss the American legal system, share perspectives, and learn from legal traditions in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Japan, China, Korea, Ukraine, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan. As legal practice becomes increasingly global, this dialogue enriches understanding for all involved.

Veterans Trust Fund

Morris James is a regular supporter of the Delaware Veterans Trust Fund, which provides critical financial assistance to Delaware veterans in need. The fund supports access to healthcare, housing, and education, helping veterans and their families achieve greater stability and independence.