Attorney Michael J. Willis, managing partner of Willis Law in Kalamazoo, has been selected as the recipient of The Tobias Simon Pro Bono Service Award for the Out-of-State Judicial Circuit. Each year, the Florida Supreme Court and Florida Bar Association give special recognition to lawyers, groups and a member of the judiciary who have freely given their time and expertise in making legal services available to the poor. The awards include the Florida Bar President's Pro Bono Service Award. Michael was selected for the "out of state" circuit where any member of the Florida Bar in 49 states is eligible for nomination and selection.
The award is named for the late Miami civil rights lawyer Tobias Simon and is presented annually by the Chief Justice to the attorneys who best exemplify the highest ideals of the profession in assuring the availability of legal services to the poor. Michael will be honored for his time, professional expertise and contributions in making legal representation available to those otherwise unable to afford the same at the Florida Supreme Court in Tallahassee on January 29, 2009.