Our Founder, Bob Murphy

Founding Attorney Continues to Influence Murphy Desmond S.C.

Since 1931, the law firm of Murphy Desmond S.C. has continued to operate with the principles and code of ethics set forth by our founder and beloved leader, the late Robert Brady Lawrence Murphy. Those values include legal integrity, efficiently rendered services, and commitment to community.

Mr. Murphy served as the law firm's first clerk when it opened its doors in 1931. He quickly became an Associate upon earning his law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School, and became a Partner in 1932.

"Bob" Murphy, as he was known to many, was a visionary and insightful leader from the start. While he guided the firm in his practicing years, Mr. Murphy continued to frequent the Madison office well into his 90s. In fact, he penned an internal memo during that time -- that the firm still shares each year -- about the need for civility and respectfulness among employees.

Although he passed away in September 2001 at the age of 95, attorneys and staff still consider Murphy Desmond to be Mr. Murphy's law firm.

As a result, we work to maintain the standards set forth by Mr. Murphy, which has helped the firm earn numerous accolades over the years including "Best Law Firm" rankings by U.S. News & World Report. In addition, the firm consistently receives honors for its individual attorneys, such as Best Lawyers in America, Lawyers of the Year-Madison, Wisconsin Super Lawyers, "AV" top ratings on Martindale-Hubbell/Lawyers.com, and top ratings on other lawyer directories such as Avvo.com and Justia.com.

Committed to the Community - Then and Now

Mr. Murphy was not only a lawyer of the highest integrity and character; he was a historian and a well-respected philanthropist in the community. After serving his country in World War II, he devoted much of his free time to charitable efforts, including volunteering with the Wisconsin Historical Society for over half a century, and helping to establish the Wisconsin Historical Foundation. He taught at the UW Law School off and on throughout his career, and served on numerous boards. Mr. Murphy continued serving on boards and committees into his 90s. The University of Wisconsin included him in their oral history project due to his sharp mind, knowledge (he grew up across the street from the Red Gym), and insightfulness about the University and Madison in the early 1900s.

Today, Murphy Desmond's devotion to the community remains strong. We support initiatives in health and human services, the arts, athletics, and local business development. We still support the Wisconsin Historical Foundation as well, through the Annual "Robert B.L. Murphy Legacy" Luncheon. Our attorneys and staff volunteer their time and resources to numerous causes, and the firm allows all employees to take a half day off with pay each year to serve our communities.

We believe Mr. Murphy wouldn't have it any other way.

"Robert Murphy was the epitome of a caring and compassionate gentleman with outstanding integrity and commitment to the morals he taught to others," said retired paralegal Jane Ring, who had been with the firm for over 40 years and knew Mr. Murphy well.

"The firm is fortunate to have Mr. Murphy's legacy as our cornerstone," said Ginger Zimmerman, Murphy Desmond President & Managing Shareholder. "His character will continue to influence decisions the firm makes as we work hard to be a valuable resource to our clients and do our part in serving our communities."