Mark Martin Receives ABA William D. Missouri Civility Award

Named in honor of the late Judge William D. Missouri, the award recognizes individuals who exemplify exceptional civility, courtesy, and professionalism throughout their legal or judicial careers. It honors those whose conduct reflects the highest ideals of the legal profession and whose leadership promotes fairness, respect, and integrity.

Throughout his career, Martin has earned national recognition for his commitment to judicial excellence, ethics, professionalism, and the administration of justice. As Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of North Carolina, he convened the North Carolina Commission on the Administration of Law and Justice, bringing together judges, lawyers, and community leaders to identify opportunities for meaningful reform. He has also served in numerous national leadership roles, including as Chair of the ABA Judicial Division and on the Board of Directors of the Conference of Chief Justices.

In accepting the award, Martin reflected on the importance of preparing the next generation of lawyers to uphold the profession's highest standards.  "We must teach civility rather than assume it will appear on its own. Students learn as much from what we do as from what we say. They should understand that civility stands alongside legal knowledge, integrity, and professional competence at the center of legal education." Read more on High Point University's site. 

The ABA Judicial Division established the William D. Missouri Civility Award to recognize individuals and organizations that advance civility and professionalism throughout the legal profession. Martin joins a distinguished group of judges and legal leaders whose careers have reflected those enduring values.

ALI congratulates Chief Justice Martin on this well-deserved honor.