Oct. 30, 2009
Chief Justice Receives President's Award from Columbus Bar Foundation
Supreme Court of Ohio Chief Justice Thomas J. Moyer has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Columbus Bar Foundation’s President’s Award.
Foundation President Frank Ray made the announcement today at the foundation’s annual meeting and Pro Bono Awards of Excellence Luncheon, which occurred during the American Bar Association’s first-ever weeklong celebration intended to highlight the importance of free legal assistance.
The President’s Award recognizes lifetime work in support of one or more aspects of the foundation’s mission. Chief Justice Moyer was honored for his efforts to improve access to justice for all Ohioans.
Chief Justice Moyer served as the luncheon’s keynote speaker and also served as one of Ohio’s honorary Pro Bono Celebration co-chairs, along with U.S. District Court Judge Walter H. Rice of the Southern District of Ohio.
In his remarks, Chief Justice Moyer spoke of the special responsibility attorneys have to ensure those without power or the means to pay for legal services have access to courts and the legal process. “Universal access to justice is a fundamental principal of the rule of law,” he said. “We must not turn our back on indigent and pro bono litigants. Their cases are no less real than those of a high paying client.”
The foundation and Columbus Bar Association annually recognize and thank pro bono volunteers for their service. The 2009 honorees, which were selected by the association’s pro bono committee chaired by Columbus attorney Lisa Eschleman, include:
- LeeAnn M. Massucci, a partner with the Columbus law firm of Massucci & Kline LLC, for Outstanding Pro Bono Service to an Individual.
- Bricker & Eckler LLP for Outstanding Pro Bono service by a Law Firm.
- 10th District Court of Appeals Judge William A. Klatt for Outstanding Pro Bono service by a Judge.
In addition to these foundation/association award winners, the Legal Aid Society of Columbus presented James D. Abrams, an attorney with Chester Willcox & Saxbe LLP, with its Excellence in Pro Bono Service by an Individual award.
For a high-resolution, print-quality photo of Chief Justice Moyer, visit: http://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/PIO/news/images/justices/moyer_highres.zip.
Contact: Chris Davey or Bret Crow at 614.387.9250.