On June 24th, BGL hosted a retirement celebration for partner Joe Espo. Former National Federation of the Blind (NFB) President Dr. Marc Maurer, as well as current national President Mark Riccobono, joined Joe’s clients, friends, family, and BGL colleagues – partners, attorneys, and staff alike – to wish him a successful retirement after decades of providing outstanding legal services to his clients and remaining on the forefront of disability advocacy.
The party was especially meaningful as Joe was presented the Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar by the NFB for his tireless efforts defending and advancing the rights of blind individuals. The NFB advocated for the creation of this unique, commemorative coin in 2009 to honor the 200th birthday of Louis Braille, the inventor of the Braille Code.
As many of you know, Joe devoted most of his career to representing individuals with disabilities in asserting their rights regarding housing, employment, and access to public accommodations and to representing individuals who have suffered serious personal injuries. Joe’s extraordinary achievements earned him recognition from prestigious organizations including Lawdragon, Best Lawyers in America, and Super Lawyers.
Joe was also instrumental in mentoring young attorneys and empowering the next generation of leading attorneys to spread their wings – whether as an educator at his alma mater, Maryland Carey Law, or here at the firm.
While we will certainly miss him, we know Joe will continue to make a tangible, lasting impact on the world around him in this next chapter. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors!
