Moore & Van Allen Recognizes Jim McLoughlin at 11th Annual Public Service Luncheon
Moore & Van Allen litigation member James P. McLoughlin, Jr. received the 2012 Sally & Bill Van Allen Public Service Award at MVA’s annual Public Service Award Luncheon on June 19. The award, given internally every year to recognize one attorney’s superior commitment to public service, was presented by MVA litigation member and 2008 award recipient Larry Gwaltney.
Jim McLoughlin received the award for his commitment to public service in 2011, during which he logged the highest individual total of pro bono time in the firm. His pro bono focus is as a member of the Criminal Justice Act panel for the U.S. District Court for Western District of North Carolina and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, representing individuals who have been charged with federal crimes, but cannot afford to hire a lawyer.
McLoughlin expressed his appreciation for the Firm’s many years of support for his pro bono efforts, and encouraged anyone who has the opportunity to defend the accused who cannot afford a lawyer to do so, saying, “It’s one of the most important things you’ll do in your career.” McLoughlin explained that the defense of individuals charged with serious crimes requires him to find and display the humanity within those he represents. “It’s always there—.”
The annual luncheon celebrates the many hours of public service and pro bono that MVA attorneys and staff have performed during the year. MVA Chairman and Member Ernie Reigel gave the opening remarks at the luncheon, which took place at the Hilton Center City. Reigel also provided a recap of the firm’s 2011 pro bono and public service statistics, which are detailed in the Public Service Committee’s 2012 Annual Report. Johnson C. Smith University President Dr. Ronald L. Carter was the guest keynote speaker, who spoke eloquently of the role of public service in building our community.
The Public Service Award bears the name of two revered members of the Moore & Van Allen family, Sally and Bill Van Allen. The Van Allens’ trail-blazing commitment to the good of the community continues to inspire firm’s pro bono and public service efforts today.