About
The Government and Public Sector Lawyers Division is proud to sponsor annual awards that celebrate the exceptional achievements of government lawyers and highlight the positive impact of their work on our communities.
Government and Public Sector Lawyers Division Awards
A series of prestigious awards honoring the remarkable contributions of government and public sector lawyers and public law offices.
Honoring the public sector's finest.
Dorsey Award
The Dorsey Award honors an extraordinary public defender or legal aid lawyer. The Award is named after the late Charles H. Dorsey, Jr., a long-time Executive Director of Maryland's Legal Aid Bureau, Inc. and champion of the poor and underprivileged.
Hodson Award
The Hodson Award recognizes sustained superior service or specific accomplishment by a government or public sector law office. The award is named in honor of the distinguished public service career of the late Major General Kenneth J. Hodson, a former Judge Advocate General of the U.S. Army.
Nelson Award
The Nelson Award recognizes unparalleled contributions to the ABA by an individual government or public sector lawyer. The Award is established as a tribute to the late L. Clair Nelson, who contributed his loyalty, time, and talent to the ABA.