Awards

Lifetime Achievement Award

2024 Lifetime Achievement Award
John Eddie Williams, Jr

In a landmark battle against Big Tobacco, he represented the state of Texas, which resulted in the largest settlement in U.S. history at the time. In another renowned case, he represented the family of a worker killed by an explosion at a chemical plant in Houston and obtained a significant verdict.

Throughout his career, he has been renowned for his relentless work ethic, tenacity, and unquenchable fighting spirit. John Eddie has made it his life’s work to protect people and promote justice.

He has always recognized just how critical AAJ’s work is to complement the battles in the courtroom for his clients. His dedication and commitment to AAJ has been a constant throughout his career. He has been one of AAJ’s greatest friends, with repeated acts of unprecedented financial giving to AAJ and its cause.

About the Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an AAJ member of at least 20 years standing whose courtroom advocacy has, during a distinguished career, significantly advanced the rights of the wrongfully injured, and who by substantial service to AAJ and the trial bar, has significantly furthered the cause of justice and the mission of the Association.

Past Recipients

2023: Kathleen Nastri
2022: Brenda S. Fulmer
2021: Jayne Conroy and Paul Hanly, Jr.*
2020: Robert A. Clifford
2019: Michael P. Koskoff
2018: Richard Hailey
2017: Wayne Hogan
2016: Mark P. Robinson
2015: W. Mark Lanier
2014: Howard L. Nations
2013: Gerry L. Spence
2012: Elizabeth Cabraser
2011: O. Fayrell Furr, Jr.
2010: Ronald L. Motley
2009: Todd Smith
2008: Fred Baron
2007: Philip H. Corboy Sr.
2006: Ralph Cloar
2005: Phil Maher
2004: Kenneth Feinberg
2003: Roxanne B. Conlin
2002: Jim Kitchens
2001: Gregory Cusimano
2000: Russ Herman
1999: Kathleen Flynn Peterson
1998: Bob Gibbins

* honored posthumously