Recognized by Best Lawyers in America 2019 as one of Maryland's Best Lawyers in the following categories: Commercial Litigation, Corporate Compliance Law, Corporate Governance Law, Corporate Law, Tax Law and Trusts and Estates.
In 2016, Shale was granted an honorary degree "Doctor of Humane Letters" by the Johns Hopkins University, the highest honor which a university can grant to anyone.
In 2016, Shale was named to the National Law Journal's list of "Trusts & Estates Trailblazers." The inaugural list recognizes legal professionals who have made significant contributions to the trusts and estates sector through innovative practices, policies or technological advancements.
In 2016, The National College of Probate Judges granted Shale its major annual award for excellence in estate matters.
In 2011, the Maryland Legal Aid Bureau recognized him as a Champion of Human Rights and Justice. He was among 100 Marylanders who were honored ring the Maryland Legal Aid Centennial Celebration for their work to advance human rights and justice.
In 2011, Shale was honored at the US Supreme Court with the American Inns of Court Professionalism Award, with Justice Sotomayor presiding.
In January 2010, incoming Baltimore Mayor named Shale to be among the four chairs of her mayoral transition team. In November 2010, the Bar Association of Baltimore City, in a first-ever process, named him among a select group of "Baltimore's Living Legal Legends."
Shale has been the president of three of the largest private charitable foundations in Maryland, including one of the 25 largest in the United States. He is also on the boards of several other charitable foundations. In 2011, the Baltimore Community Foundation welcomed him into the 2011 inaugural class of its Professional Advisor Recognition Society, honoring him for demonstrating a commitment to the community by working to advance philanthropy and encourage charitable giving across Baltimore.
Shale has been included in every addition of The Best Lawyers in America since it was first published in 1987. He is listed in the areas of taxation, corporate law, real estate, business litigation, estates and trusts.
