Purpose: Recognizes an individual practicing paralegal who has exhibited extraordinary dedication to the delivery of quality legal services to a portion of the population that cannot afford to pay for legal services.

Nomination Process: Any individual or Association may nominate a practicing paralegal for this award. Self-nomination for this award is not accepted. The nomination shall be submitted as a letter of nomination of no more than two pages and shall include, but not be limited to:

• Name and contact information of practicing paralegal being nominated

• Name and contact information of the nominating individual or contact information for the nominating individual or Association

• A detailed synopsis, including, but not limited to, a clear identification of the services and accomplishments of the nominee in the area of Pro Bono services

• Three (3) letters of recommendation, in addition to the nominator’s statement, from individuals who can attest to the qualifications of the nominee.

Eligibility/Criteria for Selection: This award is open to all practicing paralegals. The nominee need not be a member of NFPA or a NFPA member association. The determination of the award recipient will be at the sole discretion of the Judges. The general criteria includes, but is not limited to:

• The nominee must have offered Pro Bono services designed to target that portion of the population which cannot otherwise afford legal assistance.

• The nominee must have contributed to the delivery of quality legal services directed to members of the community who are unable to pay reasonable or customary legal fees.

• Did the nominee further enhance the delivery of such legal services?

• Did the nominee exhibit a true dedication to the delivery of quality legal services?

• At no time will the Judges consider the number of hours contributed by the nominee, nor the number of people assisted in the program, but rather the dedication and motivation of the individual paralegal who has most enhanced the delivery of quality legal services to that portion of the population which cannot otherwise afford legal services.

• Greater weight shall be given to those nominees who provide Pro Bono services outside of or in addition to their normal course of employment.

Award Presentation: The award includes a commemorative plaque and, pending award’s sponsorship, may include a $1,000 donation to the pro bono project of the recipient's choice.