This year’s recipient is recently retired Judge Hugh Carithers who served as administrative judge of the Family Division of the Fourth Judicial Circuit, having previously served all of the court’s other divisions and as an associate judge on the First District Court of Appeals.
As chair of the Fourth Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee, Judge Carithers welcomed all attorneys to pro bono service as a visible and involved leader, participating frequently in events recognizing them for their volunteerism together with JALA, the Jacksonville Bar Association, the Fourth Circuit Pro Bono Committee and other organizations. With Judge Carithers’ leadership, the Fourth Circuit Pro Bono Committee has become one of the model committees for Florida.
“Because of Judge Carithers’ efforts, more low-income residents of our community have had their voices heard in court and have had advocates by their sides,” said Kathy Para, who directed JALA’s pro bono program during his tenure.
Carithers practiced law in Jacksonville for 18 years before assuming the bench in January 1993. He has served as president of Jacksonville Area Legal Aid’s board of directors in 1985. He received the City of Jacksonville’s 2004 Mary Singleton Award and the Jacksonville Bar Association’s 2016 Liberty Bell Award.
A Jacksonville native, Carithers served in the U.S. Navy and then earned his law degree from the University of Florida in 1974.
Since 1999, JALA has hosted an annual celebration of altruism and generosity to recognize members of the community who work for social justice and further equality through pro bono work and monetary donations.
The Equal Justice Awards celebrates philanthropy and volunteerism within the legal community. This year marks the 20th anniversary since 1999. We would be honored if you would celebrate with us. All proceeds from this event support the provision of free legal aid to the community’s most vulnerable populations and allow Jacksonville Area Legal Aid to react quickly to the changing needs of those seeking assistance.
