Law firm mergers and acquisitions are common in the industry, often leading to growth opportunities for the firms involved. However, the recent pairing of tax-focused law firm Kostelanetz LLP with Atlanta-based WELTY PC is not only aimed at expanding its civil and criminal tax practice but also strengthening ties with historically Black college and university Spelman College in Atlanta.
Kostelanetz LLP boasts a strong tax controversy practice with many attorneys having significant government experience. Their merger with WELTY PC, which brings ten attorneys and three litigation support personnel, is expected to create the most experienced tax controversy practice in the country. This partnership was driven by WELTY’s reputation in handling complex civil tax matters, making it an easy decision for both firms to combine their veteran tax attorneys.
Spelman College has been a great source of talent for the Kostelanetz firm, leading to the establishment of the Pre-Law Paralegal Program. Graduates of the program have gone on to attend top law schools, showcasing the success of this initiative in attracting exceptional talent. The firm created this program to find extraordinary individuals who can deliver to clients, with a focus on increasing diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.
The Spelman internship program is an extension of the Pre-Law Paralegal Program, offering paid opportunities for students after graduation. Destiny Reese and Grace Hall, both Spelman graduates, have benefited from these initiatives and are now pursuing legal careers. Kostelanetz also provides financial assistance to the Morehouse-Spelman Pre-Law Society to support students in their legal aspirations.
The merger with WELTY PC not only brings additional talent to Kostelanetz but also provides a physical presence in Atlanta, allowing the firm to expand its practice and strengthen connections with Spelman College. The interns from Spelman College, along with other participants in the program, have returned to Kostelanetz as summer interns or clerks, showcasing the success of their recruitment initiatives.
The program has had a significant impact on students like Reese and Hall, who have discovered their passion for tax law and are considering careers in the field. They emphasize the importance of teamwork in the legal profession and the diverse opportunities available in tax litigation and white-collar defense work. Moving forward, they hope to see continued growth in the relationship between Kostelanetz and Spelman College, benefiting both the firm and the students involved.
