Background/Criteria
The Curtis E. Coker Access to Justice Award has annually been presented by the Mississippi Bar to an individual who has provided outstanding pro bono legal services during the previous year. The main purpose of this award is to foster awareness of the need for involvement of the private bar in delivering legal services to the poor, particularly through the Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project (the "MVLP"). The award gives public recognition each year to a Mississippi lawyer who has made significant pro bono contributions to this effort. The award was originally established 20 years ago as the Pro Bono Project's President Award. However, in 2002 after the death of former Mississippi Bar President Curtis E. Coker, the name was changed in his honor. Curtis was a leading advocate in the cause of making legal services available to all without regard to economic status and the MVLP was established during his term as Bar President. The award is presented each year during the Mississippi Bar Annual Meeting in Sandestin, Florida.
Eligibility
Any Mississippi Bar member in good standing is eligible to be nominated.
Selection
Selection is made based upon individual pro bono contribution through MVLP. |
