Award applications are Open

The Unsung Hero Award honors a person whose work exemplifies the many folks who ensure the safety and efficient operation of the Federal Judiciary. The courts are an important part of our social fabric and the cornerstone of our democracy, ensuring a safe and equitable venue for civil disputes and a dignified and respectful venue for criminal matters. The safety of these proceedings and all who participate in them serves a vital need to keep them public, open, and engaged. This safety is the work of thousands throughout the country in various capacities, many of whom are never seen or heard. Each year, events unfold at and around courthouses that potentially place the bench, bar, and public at harm and these individuals step in to ensure the safety of our community.

The Award will be presented annually to a member of the court community who, through career contributions or exceptional heroics, has maintained and improved the safety and functioning of the courts and the community at large.

Award Eligibility 

The nominee should have at least 5 years of service to the judiciary or court systems, serving in a non-lawyer or non-judicial role, at the local, state, or federal level. The nominating service or event shall be in service to the Federal Judiciary.

The nomination package should include the following:

  1. A nomination submitted by both the chapter president and the head of the agency supervising the nominee (District Court, Bankruptcy Court, Probation or Pretrial Services Office, U.S. Marshal Service, or Federal Protective Service)
  2. A biography of the nominee and description of the service or event for which they are being nominated.
  3. No more than three testimonials or letters of recommendation, which shall summarize the facts and circumstances supporting the selection of the nominee for the award.
  4. Confirmation by the local chapter that, to the extent that the nominee is not selected for the national award, that the chapter will honor and recognize the nominee at the local chapter level in some capacity.

Please fill out the following fields in full and upload all supporting documents.

2024 Unsung Hero Application

Maximum file size: 15.36MB

Attach Letter of Nomination *

Maximum file size: 15.36MB

Max of 3 letters. Letters should summarize the facts and circumstances supporting the selection of the nominee for the award.

If you have any questions regarding this application, please contact awards@fedbar.org.