Carol Friend, partner at Honigman LLP, Interlaw’s partner firm in Detroit, has been awarded the Interlaw Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to cross-border legal practice, international client service, and leadership within the global network of independent law firms.

The Interlaw Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the network’s highest honors, reserved for attorneys whose careers have exemplified excellence, integrity, collaboration and impact. The award is presented annually to a lawyer who has advanced the mission of Interlaw through sustained commitment to quality, fostering transnational client relationships, and mentoring the next generation of legal professionals.

Interlaw Chair Michael Pattinson remarked, “Carol Friend embodies the spirit of what Interlaw aims to be, a lawyer who not only achieves excellence in her home jurisdiction, but also builds bridges globally. Her work has created pathways for clients to navigate complex international terrain, and her leadership within the network has elevated standards for cooperation and client service.”

Carol has been a driving force at Honigman for nearly three decades, developing an international and cross-border practice in the area of employment-based immigration, representing national and international companies in complex business immigration matters. Carol is Martindale-Hubbell AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated and has been recognized by Chambers and Partners, The Best Lawyers in America, DBusiness Top Lawyers and Michigan Super Lawyers for her outstanding service in the area of immigration law.

At Interlaw, Carol has held several leadership roles, including serving on its Board of Directors, as regional chair of North America, as global chair of the Diversity, Inclusion, and Community affinity group, and as co-chair of the Women of Interlaw Network affinity group, leading efforts to foster greater inclusivity and equity across the network and the legal services industry more broadly. She recently led efforts at Honigman to host the 2024 Americas’ Regional Meeting, bringing together more than 70 lawyers to Detroit for three days of professional development, training, and networking opportunities. 

Commenting on her award Carol said, “I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from Interlaw. Over the years, this network has given me the opportunity to work alongside extraordinary lawyers from around the world who share a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and client service. This award is a reflection of those collective efforts, and I’m proud to be part of a community that truly embodies global partnership.”