9/16/02

The State Bar of Michigan will honor five individuals with this year's Champion of Justice Awards. Henry Baskin, Hon. Robert Holmes Bell, Ann Cooper, James R. Neuhard and Theodore J. St. Antoine have been chosen as recipients due to their extraordinary professional accomplishments and adherence to the highest principles and traditions of the legal profession. The contributions of these individuals will be recognized at a luncheon Thursday, September 26, at the Bar's 67th Annual Meeting in Grand Rapids.

Henry Baskin, who practices in Birmingham, has demonstrated a dedication to the rule of law and the improvement of our justice system. As chair of the Governor's Domestic Violence Task Force, he guided the committee to establish procedures that have become nationally known as a model for the protection of the abused spouse. As a further result of the committee's work, ten Public Acts of 1994 were passed by the legislature and signed into law. They cover the creation of the personal protection order, improved procedures for those who violate an abuse injunction, improved police reporting and advice to victims. Baskin is host of the WDIV-TV public affairs program "Due Process" which has been recognized as one of the most meaningful and effective media presentations about our justice system.

Judge Robert Holmes Bell of the US District Court - Western District of Michigan has been highly praised for his superior professional competence. Judge Bell started in the legal profession as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Ingham County in 1969. In 1972 he was elected to the district court bench. Later, he was elected and re-elected to the 30th Judicial Circuit where he served until 1987. President Ronald Reagan appointed Judge Bell as the U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Michigan in August 1987. Since his appointment, he has served regular and extensive assignments from the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. He became chief judge of the district court last May. Described as a just, compassionate and giving individual, Judge Bell is particularly interested in education. This is reflected in his service as a lecturer at the Federal Judicial Center, on the Board of Trustees of Cornerstone University, and numerous other civic endeavors.

Ann M. Cooper has been an advocate for the under-represented and the under-served. She has dedicated her energy, intellect and leadership capabilities as well as countless hours to the causes of racial justice, increasing racial and gender diversity, and opportunities for women. A partner in the Grand Rapids firm of Drew, Cooper and Anding, she focuses on civil rights employment suits. Cooper has successfully litigated against numerous high profile corporate and governmental entities on behalf of juveniles, minorities and women. She is actively involved in the Grand Rapids community and works collaboratively outside the courtroom to help people resolve problems and enact change. She is described as "a perfect example of someone who lives her life according to the highest ideals of professionalism, fairness, justice and diversity."

James R. Neuhard is the Director of the State Appellate Defender Office in Detroit, a position that he has held for the last 30 years. He has distinguished himself in Michigan and nationally through his work and achievements as a lawyer in public service, defending the constitution, civil liberties and underprivileged citizens. Neuhard has made a significant and lasting contribution to the nation by furthering understanding and highlighting the importance of adequate funding and the necessary political independence of the indigent defense system. He is the person that many public defender leaders turn to for answers to the issues that affect our system of justice. Neuhard is often praised for qualities like integrity, fairness, excellence and dedication to the principles and ideals of democracy. He sits on numerous boards and committees and has made a significant difference in the quality of justice dispensed in Michigan and across the nation.

Professor Theodore J. St. Antoine is the James E. and Sarah A Degan Professor Emeritus of Law at the University of Michigan. He joined the Michigan law faculty in 1965 and was dean from 1971 to 1978. Prior to that he had practiced law in Cleveland, in the U.S. Army, and for a number of years in Washington D.C. concentrating on labor law. Through his teachings, writing, arbitration decisions, section seminars, and public service, Professor St. Antoine has made immeasurable contributions in the development of labor and employment law. His accomplishments have significantly influenced those who practice in the area. Two years ago he was the recipient of the State Bar's Labor and Employment Law Section's Distinguished Service Award.

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