Symbols of the
Law Office of Randolph B. Neal, Esq.
Unlike many companies that seek to be recognized by an iconic logo or image which the public sees frequently, law firms and offices typically rely on referrals largely based on their reputation and prior clients. Few law firms invest in developing a logo because the public wouldn't see it often enough to create a lasting impression. So you'll commonly see initials or something with the scales of justice. Because Randy finds a creative outlet in graphic design, and he has an amateur's understanding of heraldry, the office adopted a "heraldic achievement" commonly known as a coat of arms to instantly create a certain image which conveys dignity, trust and authority even on its first impression. So if you have extra time on your hands, or can't get to sleep, read on about the various symbols developed for the Law Office of Randolph B. Neal over the past ten years.
Coat of Arms
Our achievement is generally made of five components:
Sometimes referred to as a sigil, and used in a seal or signet, the symbol or emblem is the center point of the shield. In our case, it is composed of the scales and loyal sword of justice. The scales of justice represent not only the aspiration to equality before the law, represented in our adversarial system by two opposing sides, but also the balancing of justice and mercy.
The loyal sword refers to the way a knight protector holds his sword with his gauntlets (armor gloves) over his heart when pledging his fealty to his master and his duty to protect all in his household. It is held defensively (pointed toward the ground). Because we are a private practice, our duty is usually to defend and protect our client's interests. We have also sworn an oath to be loyal to our clients and to the law.
The Symbol
The Shield
Our shield is technically "gules with a dexter azure bend to sinister." Basically a red shield with a blue diagonal stripe.
Red has a range of symbolic meanings, including life, health, vigor, courage, love and religious fervor. The common thread is that all these require passion, and the "life force" that drives passion blood is red. This represents our duty to represent our clients vigorously and with passion and courage.
Blue is a primary color across all models of color space. It is the color of the ocean and the sky; it symbolizes serenity, stability, inspiration, and wisdom. It can be a calming color, and symbolize reliability.
The "bend" or diagonal strip with two sides of the shield calls forth the initial "N."
Supporters, Crest and Banners
The rampant lions are called supporters. Rampant lions are actively rearing ready to engage any enemy. Our lions look outward or to the front, defensive of our clients. Lions represent courage, power, majesty, dignity, authority, justice, wisdom, and ferocity. As the "King of the Jungle" they are sometimes adorned with crowns which represent the majesty of the ideals of justice.
The crest in most arms consists of a crown. Granting of arms is typically through the authority of the King or Queen Sovereign and is a great honor and privilege. However, our crest is an American eagle. The eagle signifies inspiration, release from bondage, victory, longevity, speed, and pride. It has been an emblem for the Romans, French, Austrian, German, and American nations.
Typically the banner identifies the name of our firm. However it sometimes has the motto, "Fiat Liberte et Justitia Ruat Caelum" meaning above all liberty and justice, thought the heavens may fall.
Renditions
Because our symbol is a coat of arms rather than a logo, it can be rendered in many different ways and still have the desired effect and symbolism. Elaborate renditions are known as "great arms" and often have flourishes. Simplified versions add great diversity in the way they are utilized, especially in those circumstances where space is limited. In addition to the two "great arms" shown above, there are a variety of additional renditions. Just click on the thumbnail to see the full size rendition.
The Corporate Mark
In 2018, a professional limited liability company was formed which now encompasses the prior solo practice. The new entity, Neal Law PLLC, now does business as The Law Office of Randolph B. Neal, Esq. The corporate mark has many of the same symbols as the coat of arms, but the supporters are fasces rather than lions. A fasces is an ancient symbol adopted at least as early as the roman empire. The bundle lashed together with leather straps often means unity, but it also had another important symbolism. The ax would be a symbol of authority, similar to the sword of justice, but the long handle would break with out the support of the bundled rods which stood for individual civil rights. The four values listed in the mid banners are life, liberty, due process and fealty. The latin word for due process "cognicione" is actually incomplete, symbolizing the defense attorney's constant battle for due process. Adorning the supporters are oak and palm leaves. Oak leaves symbolize strength, endurance, eternity, honor, liberty, hospitality, faith, and virtue. The palm leaves are a symbol of victory, triumph, peace, and eternal life. A palm branch was awarded to victorious athletes and military leaders in ancient Greece and ancient Rome. Since a victory signals an end to a conflict or competition, the palm developed into a symbol of peace.
Renditions
The Monogram
One of the earliest versions of a coat of arms for the office was an evolution of early monogram logos which had the overlapping letters "R" and "N" with a torch making the left side of the letter "N." The torch is a common emblem of enlightenment, life and truth. The latin word "LEX" means law and "EST MMX" stands for established 2010.
Early Versions
Investigations Division
The current emblem of the Investigations Division was adopted in May 2020 to simplify the complex prior emblems. It contains the shield of the law office surrounded by the sunburst which is an international symbol for investigative agencies. The crest is an American eagle. The motto, which was found on prior emblems is "Mittent In Tunebras Lucem" which roughly means shining light into darkness. The sunburst thus replaces the written motto.
Badges
Different badges are used depending on assignment or location to either comply with local state law or in order to avoid confusion with local law enforcement agencies.
Prior Emblems
Colors and Other Emblems
In the summer of 2019, our office designed a flag for promotional purposes based on the monogram coat of arms. We eventually acquired two of this version: One stands behind the attorney's desk in our office and the other is used in the background of the frequent Zoom hearings to hide clutter in our offices. In the future we want to revise the current flag design, to make it uniform with the current coat of arms (the new version shown above). It's also a fun part of the hobby to imagine what other emblems might look like. We could really use some help getting something to put the yacht medallion on.
Football Team Sponsor
Blue Blazer Crest
