2019 Award Recipients
G Eric Brunstad Jr.
Eric Brunstad is an esteemed Business Law Section member whose longstanding contributions to public service have helped promote equal access to our legal system for all. This award recognizes his extraordinary commitment to pro bono service, particularly through pro bono representation in appellate matters of parties in bankruptcy and bankruptcy-related cases. Through his efforts, he has helped to continue the efforts for those causes that may not have otherwise had their appellate “day in court.”
Eric has displayed extraordinary breadth of work in this area. The Section was particularly impressed with his ability to incorporate this work seamlessly into his practice as a preeminent bankruptcy appellate litigator and scholar, and the many courts in which he has argued pro bono appeals – including the United States Supreme Court. We commend Eric’s dedication, and we celebrate it as giving effect to the highest ideals of the profession.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper has demonstrated their commitment to pro bono service through the broad and creative efforts that they have undertaken to find opportunities for corporate and transactional lawyers to use their legal skills to help their communities. One of their most concerted efforts has been a focused initiative to support hunger relief programs. For over 30 years they have provided pro bono legal counsel to food banks across the country and throughout the world. The Section recognizes and celebrates DLA Piper’s efforts to identify on a particular challenge in our society where they could make a difference.
Additionally, they have contributed work in the area of assisting small businesses and micro-entrepreneurs and increasing financial inclusion outside the United States. The hundreds of lawyers and thousands of hours that you commit to this work are a model for all firms everywhere.
