Dec. 16, 2009 – The State Bar annually recognizes attorneys, judges, law firms, organizations, and law students who have made outstanding pro bono, public service, or public education contributions. If you know of an individual or organization that should be recognized, contact the State Bar by Dec. 31.
The Legal Assistance Committee recognizes attorneys or organizations for their outstanding pro bono service. These awards may be given to honor private, government,or corporate practice attorneys; private law firms; and bar associations who provide legal services to low- and moderate-income populations, explore new ways to increase the accessibility of legal services, provide encouragement and assistance to others in improving legal services delivery, and promote pro bono service for Wisconsin lawyers. Contact Jeffery Brown at (800) 728-7788, ext. 6177 or (608) 250-6177.
The Public Interest Law Section seeks nominations for the Dan Tuchscherer Outstanding Public Interest Law Attorney Award, which recognizes a lawyer who has demonstrated a selfless, lifetime commitment to working in the public interest, both inside and outside the field of law. The section also seeks nominations for the Outstanding Public Interest Law Student Award for the U.W. and Marquette law schools. Contact Salud Garcia at (800) 728-7788, ext. 6190 or (608) 250-6190.
The Public Education Committee (formerly Law-related Education Committee) seeks nominations for the Public Education Attorney of the Year Award. This award honors an attorney who has demonstrated excellence in promoting and supporting statewide efforts to educate the public, encourage understanding and respect for the legal system, and foster appreciation of the rights and responsibilities of all persons under the law. Contact Marsha Varvil-Weld at (800) 728-7788, ext. 6191 or (608) 250-6191.
The Wisconsin Lawyers Assistance Program (WisLAP) seeks nominations for the WisLAP Volunteer of the Year Award. This award honors a lawyer who has provided confidential, meaningful assistance through the WisLAP program in coping with alcoholism or other addictions, depression, acute and chronic anxiety, and other problems related to the stress of practicing law. Contact Linda Albert at (800) 728-7788, ext. 6172 or (608) 250-6172.
The Wisconsin Law Foundation (WLF) seeks nominations for three awards. The Belle Case LaFollette Outstanding Professional Award recognizes a lawyer who has made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of the profession. The Gordon Sinykin Award of Excellence recognizes a lawyer or organization for work on an individual law-related education or public service project. The Donald O’Melia Local Service Award recognizes a lawyer who has made a significant public service contribution in his or her local community. Contact Laura Emerson at (800) 728-7788, ext. 6015 or (608) 250-6015.
The awards will be presented at the Volunteer Lawyers Recognition Celebration, which will be held during the 2010 State Bar Annual Convention in Madison, May 5 - 7.
