Annual Award Categories

Below is the list of awards delineated in PACDL's Bylaws. Nominations are accepted December 1 through January 15. If you want to nominate an individual, please complete the interactive form and submit it to pacdl@pacdl.org.  
 
The Liberty Award (one annually)
The Liberty Award is presented annually to an individual, group, or organization that has demonstrated an unwavering and enduring commitment to the principles of liberty, justice, and equality under the law. This prestigious award honors those whose actions, advocacy, or leadership have made a significant and lasting impact in upholding fundamental rights and freedoms and promoting social justice for all. The recipient(s) will be chosen by the President, after consultation with the other officers, based on the significance and lasting impact of their contributions.

The Charles P. Gelso and Arthur T. Donato, Jr. Presidents' Award (one annually) This prestigious award is presented annually to a member who has made exceptional contributions to the Association, demonstrating leadership, dedication, and a profound commitment to its mission and values. The recipient must exemplify the highest standards of professional integrity, service, and support, reflecting the commitment and dedication of both Charles P. Gelso and Arthur T. Donato, Jr., The recipient will be selected by the President, who will base their decision on the nominee's sustained and outstanding engagement with the Association's work, and the positive influence the individual has had on the Association and its members. 

President's and Directors' Commendation(s) The President's and Directors' Commendation(s) are awarded at the discretion of the President and the Directors to one or more members in recognition of their exceptional contributions to the Association during the preceding year. These commendations honor individuals whose dedication, service, and efforts have had a significant positive impact on the Association, whether through leadership, volunteerism, innovation, or other forms of engagement that advance the goals and objectives of the Association. 

The Alan Jay Josel Advocacy Award (one annually) The Alan Jay Josel Advocacy Award is presented annually to a member who has demonstrated extraordinary advocacy in advancing one or more critical cases, causes, or criminal justice reform issues during the preceding year. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals whose passionate commitment to justice and tireless efforts have had a significant impact on the criminal defense legal community or specific groups in need as did Alan Jay Josel, a criminal defense lawyer from Montgomery County for over 20 years and former Chief Public Defender. The recipient must exhibit exemplary skills in advocacy, demonstrate a profound dedication to promoting positive change, and have contributed meaningfully to the protection and advancement of rights and interests through the individual's work. The recipient will be selected by the President, following consultation with the other officers, based on the individual's exceptional contributions to criminal defense advocacy in the previous year.