The Roberts P. Hudson Award is the highest honor conferred by the State Bar of Michigan. It is presented periodically to recognize a member of the State Bar who exemplifies exceptional service and dedication to the legal profession, the State Bar, and the public.

Nominees for the Hudson Award will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Must be a current member in good standing of the State Bar of Michigan.
• Demonstrated extraordinary and exceptional service to and on behalf of:
  • The legal profession; and
  • The public.
• The service must be distinctive in quality and not commonly expected in the normal course of professional duties.
• The service must be rendered in a selfless, generous, and voluntary manner with an emphasis on personal sacrifice, with no expectation of personal gain or recognition.
• The nominee’s conduct and contributions should bring honor, esteem, and respect to the legal profession consistent with the lawyer’s oath and should have no publications or past statements to the contrary.
• The nominee should exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and
• public service.
• The nominee’s efforts should have a significant and lasting impact on the legal
• community, the administration of justice, or broader public interest.

The Hudson Award is not given annually by default, but only when an individual (or individuals) clearly meets or exceeds the above criteria.

• Posthumous nominations may be considered.
• The selection committee may consider the totality of the nominee’s contributions throughout their legal career.

Application Form: Apply online. If a paper application is required for a nomination, please email sbmawards@michbar.org.

Previous Winners