Childers, Schlueter & Smith (CSS) is proud to congratulate partner M. Brandon Smith on receiving the 2026 Elise R. Sanguinetti Award from the American Association for Justice (AAJ) New Lawyers Division.
The award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary service to the AAJ New Lawyers Division during their time as members and who continue that commitment throughout their legal careers. Named in honor of former AAJ President Elise R. Sanguinetti—the first former New Lawyers Division Chair to become President of the organization—the award celebrates attorneys who exemplify professionalism, service, and advocacy.
Recognizing Leadership and Service
The American Association for Justice is one of the nation’s leading organizations for plaintiff trial lawyers, dedicated to protecting the civil justice system, promoting trial advocacy, and supporting the rights of injured individuals and consumers. Through education, advocacy, and professional development, AAJ helps attorneys better serve their clients while advancing access to justice.
Receiving the Elise R. Sanguinetti Award reflects not only an attorney’s professional accomplishments but also a sustained commitment to mentoring fellow lawyers, strengthening the legal profession, and serving AAJ’s mission.
Brandon’s selection for this honor recognizes years of leadership and service within the organization, as well as his dedication to advancing the values of the civil justice system.
Everyone at Childers, Schlueter & Smith congratulates Brandon on this well-deserved national recognition.
His commitment to serving clients, mentoring fellow attorneys, and contributing to the legal profession reflects the values our firm strives to uphold every day. We are proud to celebrate this achievement and grateful for the leadership Brandon brings to our firm, our clients, and the broader legal community.
Congratulations, Brandon, on this outstanding honor!
