ALI member Dwyer Arce, a partner at Kutak Rock LLP, has been named a recipient of the 2025 Award of Special Merit from the Nebraska State Bar Association. The award recognizes his service on the Rules Subcommittee of the Nebraska Supreme Court Committee on Practice and Procedure.
Arce will be honored alongside fellow subcommittee members Justice Jonathan J. Papik, Judge Julie D. Smith, Professor John P. Lenich, Joy Shiffermiller, and Jeanette Stull for their four-year effort leading to the publication of revised Nebraska Court Rules in November 2024.
The amended Rules of Discovery and Rules of Pleading in Civil Cases introduced significant stylistic improvements to enhance clarity and usability. The reforms also addressed key procedural issues, improving efficiency for courts, litigants, and legal practitioners across the state.
Established in 1973, the Award of Special Merit recognizes individuals or organizations whose work advances the legal profession, the administration of justice, or the public interest.
The awards will be presented at the Nebraska State Bar Association Annual Meeting on October 7, 2025.