By Anthony "Nino" Martino
In the September issue of this magazine, I wrote about the opportunities available through the Young Lawyers Division and encouraged all young lawyers to get more involved professionally to help us make a difference in Hillsborough County. In this issue, I would like to recognize two amazing local Bar members whose activities and service have furthered the interests of the legal profession, especially relating to young lawyers. The YLD wishes to again recognize this year’s winners of the Outstanding Young Lawyer Award and the Robert W. Patton Outstanding Jurist Award.
This year’s YLD Outstanding Young Lawyer Award recipient is Jacqueline Simms-Petredis, who is being recognized as exemplary in the area of professionalism and in the practice of law in her field of practice. Jacqueline performed service to the community on a personal level and has been actively involved in the HCBA’s YLD, currently serving as the immediate past-president. Jacqueline was selected as the award winner in recognition of the difference she has made in the practice of law and the community through her ethics and conduct.
This year’s Outstanding Jurist Award recipient is Judge Emily Peacock, who is being recognized as an outstanding jurist with an excellent reputation for sound judicial decisions and an unblemished record for integrity as a lawyer and judge. Judge Peacock is recognized by the YLD members as highly qualified, active in Bar-related activities, and showing a concern for and willingness to assist young lawyers while demonstrating a respect for their abilities. Judge Peacock actively serves as a mentor for young lawyers through a number of organizations and is a previous recipient of the Distinguished Judicial Service Award, which recognizes a specific commitment to support pro bono legal services.
The YLD would like to thank Jacqueline Simms-Petredis and Judge Emily Peacock for their substantial contributions to the legal profession, the HCBA YLD, and the Hillsborough County community. The excellence demonstrated by both recipients provides an example that we should all aspire to in our own professional development.
Recent & Upcoming YLD Events:
For more information on the YLD’s activities, check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Hillsboroughbaryld. Please also volunteer or join us at the YLD booth at the Judicial Pig Roast on March 21; Law Week from March 16 to 20; Cornhole for a Cause on March 28; Steak and Sports Day, which is TBD; and State Court Trial Seminar on June 12. Additionally, family forms clinics will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on April 21, May 19, and June 2 on the second floor of the George Edgecomb Courthouse. Please contact Ella Shenhav or Katelyn Desrosiers to get involved in any of the YLD’s pro bono activities.
