Manatt's Levy to Chair Firm's Pro Bono Business

Los Angeles–based law firm Manatt, Phelps & Phillips LLP has named attorney Stanley W. Levy as chair of Manatt’s pro bono practice.

The firm’s pro bono director, Cristin Zeisler, will work with Levy to advance the company’s pro bono initiative, which was launched last year.

Levy, who has served as a member of Manatt’s labor and employment group for nearly 10 years, is a member of the executive board of the California Fashion Association. Prior to joining Manatt, he was the general counsel of Los Angeles denim giant Guess? Inc.

A graduate of the University of California– Los Angeles and the UCLA School of Law, Levy was one of the original staff attorneys at the Western Center on Law & Poverty and served as its deputy director. He was the founding executive director of public counsel and co-founder of Bet Tzedek, a public-interest law firm, and continues to serve on its board. He also served as the first director of training for the Los Angeles city attorney’s office. He was appointed to the White House Apparel Industry Task Force, founded by President Clinton to set labor standards for overseas apparel and footwear production. Levy is a rabbi who has been the spiritual leader of Congregation B’nai Horin Children of Freedom for 38 years.

Paul H. Irving, chief executive officer and managing partner of Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, praised Levy’s appointment.

“We have defined our pro bono initiative as a long-term strategic priority, and Stan brings an unparalleled depth of experience and breadth of impact to our efforts,” he said in a statement. “We have made great strides, and I want to thank Stan, Cristin and all at Manatt who serve our pro bono clients with talent, commitment and energy.” —Alison A. Nieder