News and Updates

Celebrating Exemplary Lawyers:
The Smithmoore P. Myers Professionalism Award
by Nicholas J. Pontarolo, SCBA President

If there were Olympic Games for lawyers, who would take home the gold medal in professionalism? Every legal community has those extraordinary attorneys who go above and beyond, those champions of integrity, civility, and service. In the Spokane County Bar Association (SCBA), we have the honor of recognizing these outstanding individuals with the Smithmoore P. Myers Professionalism Award. So, before you reach for your next cup of coffee, or pick up your phone to scroll the latest Olympic medal count, let’s dissect what it means to be a truly professional lawyer, and why your nomination matters.

What Makes a Lawyer “Professional”?

Contrary to popular opinion, being a professional lawyer isn’t just about knowing how to craft the perfect motion, or litigation experience or how many 5-star reviews you have. It’s about embodying the best traditions of the legal profession and acting as a role model for peers and the public alike.

1. Integrity and Ethical Conduct: The Moral Compass

The rules of professional conduct aren’t just fine print, they’re the guiding light for any lawyer seeking to make a real difference. Professional lawyers consistently adhere to both the letter and spirit of these rules, demonstrating honesty in all their dealings and a profound respect for the rule of law.

2. Civility and Professional Courtesy: More Than Just Manners

Ever seen a lawyer defuse a heated confrontation with a calm smile and a well-timed compliment? These are the unsung heroes who treat everyone, from clients and court staff to opposing counsel and witnesses with respect and professionalism. Civility isn’t just etiquette; it’s the secret sauce that keeps the wheels of justice spinning smoothly.

3. Competence and Diligence: Always on Their A-Game

Professional lawyers are like the perfect multitool (think Leatherman, Swiss Army, angle grinder); prepared for anything, always learning, and never settling for “good enough.” Their diligence shines through in every brief, argument, cross-examination, and their always willing to pick up the phone.

4. Commitment to the Administration of Justice: Champions of Fairness

It’s not just about winning cases, it’s about promoting fairness, access to justice, and public confidence in the legal system, even in the face of change and opposition. These lawyers serve as guardians of justice, making sure that the process is efficient, equitable, and open to all.

5. Service, Leadership, and Mentorship: Giving Back with Purpose

Some lawyers inspire us not just by their expertise in the courtroom, but by their dedication to making the world a better place. Whether through pro bono work, mentoring the next generation, or leading community initiatives outside the law, they embody selflessness and leadership both inside and outside the legal sphere.

6. Character and Reputation: Setting the Standard

Ask around the courthouse or local coffee shop, and you’ll find that truly professional lawyers have reputations that precede them. Their integrity, judgment, and commitment to their peers and community set a gold standard that others strive to reach.

Why Your Nomination Matters and Why the SCBA wants you to Nominate

Think for a moment about the lawyers in your community who embody these ideals. Maybe it’s the colleague who always has a word of encouragement, the mentor who taught you the ropes, or the advocate who goes the extra mile for access to justice. The Smithmoore P. Myers Professionalism Award is your chance to shine a spotlight on one of these heroes and share their inspiring stories with the entire SCBA community.

Nomination Criteria at a Glance

• Integrity and Ethical Conduct
• Civility and Professional Courtesy
• Competence and Diligence
• Commitment to the Administration of Justice
• Service, Leadership, and Mentorship
• Character and Reputation

Remember, nominations should be for attorneys who currently practice or have practiced law in the Spokane area (excluding sitting members of the bench, deceased members of the bar, and current SCBA Board of Trustees). The nominee doesn’t need to be an SCBA member, but you do!

 

Take a moment, put pen to paper, gather a group to co-write a nomination, shed light on that person who has made your legal journey better by their demeanor.

 

Please nominate a deserving colleague for the Smithmoore P. Myers Professionalism Award and help continue a legacy of excellence, service, and integrity.

Written nominations outlining the above criteria and attributes should be emailed to MWardrop@SpokaneBar.orgno later than February 23, 2026. These nominations will then be reviewed by the SCBA professionalism committee and a winner selected for the 2026 Smithmoore P. Myers Professionalism Award.