The State Bar’s Legal Services to the Poor in Criminal Matters Committee is seeking nominations for the Indigent Defense Awards. These awards recognize deserving individuals, groups, and entities that perform exceptional work in the field of indigent defense. Nominations must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 24, 2023. Recipients of the Indigent Defense Awards will be notified in May. These awards will be presented in June at the State Bar Annual Meeting. To see a list of previous award winners, here.

WARREN BURNETT AWARD [PDF]
Named for the late legendary Texas Attorney Warren Burnett, the award recognizes extraordinary contributions to improving the quality of criminal legal representation to indigent Texans. The award honors either an individual or organization for their work in the courtroom, legislature, or in the community.

MICHAEL K. MOORE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH OR WRITING IN THE AREA OF INDIGENT CRIMINAL DEFENSE [PDF]
This award is named after Doctor Michael K. Moore for his pivotal role in several research and writing efforts that had a major effect on indigent defense in Texas. The award will be presented to an individual (including both private citizens and members of the Bar) or organization in recognition of exceptional research or writing that deals with indigent criminal defense and that represents a significant contribution to the knowledge and practices of the bench, bar, and scholarly communities.
Each attorney nominee must be a member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.

Please send your nomination packet to:

probono@texasbar.com

For more information about these awards, contact the Legal Access Division at probono@texasbar.com or 800-204-2222, ext. 1855.