Andrew Childers, Harvard Law Class of 2011, found himself in an ethical dilemma in front of a judge. His client had been charged with probation violation and as part of his defense, he'd requested she collect letters from her community in support of her. The morning Childers and his client were to face the judge, two letters appeared, both of which were suspect to Childers. His moment of truth arrived. He argued for his client and gave it his all, but ultimately, he decided against using the letters.
Dean Marth Minow of Harvard Law School said, while recognizing Childers' ethics and commitment, ''We are so proud of the commitments and thoughtful approaches of our students who know that ethics require active engagement and a perspective larger than the current moment or easiest path.''
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Childers, upon his graduation, said he planned to go to work as an appellate lawyer at the Equal Justice Initiative in Alabama, where he will handle death penalty cases as well as represent juveniles who have been sentenced to life without parole.
Boston University School of Law is celebrating with its recipient, too. This year, Thomas Favaloro, Class of 2011, is the proud award winner. Like Childers and the other recipients, Favaloro will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
Both say they are eager to begin their legal careers and sincerely hope to make a difference for each client they represent.
Following the dinner, the Honorable William G. Young of the United States district Court for the district of Massachusetts gave what many said was a ''thought provoking address'' that focused on the American jury system and the threats it now faces.
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