Each year the AACJ Board of Governors reviews the accomplishments of its members to determine which, if any of its awards, should be bestowed upon those members whose accomplishments warrant recognition.
John J. Flynn Lifetime Achievement Award: This is AACJ's highest award. It is given to the criminal defense professional whose achievements and dedication to the protection of constitutional rights and the pursuit of justice deserve special recognition. The award will be presented to a criminal defense professional who has earned over the years, through his or her accomplishments and integrity, a special recognition among his or her peers.
2019 - Michael Bloom
2018 - James Belanger
2017 - Rich Robertson
William Rothstein Achievement Award: The Rothstein Achievement Award is given to that member practicing in one of Arizona's rural counties who exemplifies special commitment and skill in his or her representation of clients in "small town Arizona." This award honors long time AACJ member, the late William Rothstein of Nogales.
2019 - Steve Harvey
2018 - Grace Guisewite
Jack Williams Appellate Achievement Award: This award is bestowed upon that member who demonstrates great skill, creativity and success in appellate practice in Arizona. Created to honor the late Jack Williams of Prescott, a founding member of AACJ, highly regarded for his appellate work.
2017 - Mikel Steinfeld
Tom Karas Indigent Defense Award: Created to honor Arizona's first Federal Public Defender, Tom Karas, this award is presented to that member or organization for special service to the indigent defense community in Arizona.
2019 - John Canby
2018 - James Haas
Vanguard Leadership Award: This award recognizes outstanding leadership in criminal defense. It is given to that member whose service to AACJ demonstrates his or her commitment to the goals and mission of this organization.
2019 - Tim Agan
2018 - Kathleen Brody
2017 - David Euchner
Past President Award: An award to acknowledge the out-going President's dedication and tireless work during the past year.
2019 - Craig Rosenstein
2018 - Amy Kalman
2017 - John Sears
Presidential Commendation(s): Commendations are awarded by the outgoing president to person(s) of his/her choice whose achievements during the past year warrant special recognition.
2019 - Lawrence Koplow, Alex Lane, Walter Nash
2018 - Amy P. Knight, Julia Cassels
A statewide not-for-profit membership organization of criminal defense lawyers, law students and associated professionals dedicated to protecting the rights of the accused in the courts and in the legislature, promoting excellence in the practice of criminal law through education, training and mutual assistance, and fostering public awareness of citizens’ rights, the criminal justice system and the role of the defense lawyer.
