AAJ Recognizes Member Achievements at 2023 Annual Convention

 Washington, DC — The following is a statement from American Association for Justice (AAJ) Immediate Past President Tad Thomas acknowledging the dedicated AAJ members who were honored during the 2023 Annual Convention:

"Every day AAJ members make meaningful contributions to society by seeking justice for all," said Thomas. "We are honored to recognize this impressive group of trial lawyers, advocating for their clients and raising the bar for all of us."

Among the awards presented at the 2023 Annual Convention:

Lifetime Achievement Award

Kathleen Nastri of Koskoff, Koskoff and Bieder, P.C. was recognized for a distinguished career of courtroom advocacy that significantly advances the rights of the wrongly injured. She has obtained several precedent-setting verdicts on behalf of clients suffering from medical negligence, personal injury, and other complex cases. Nastri served AAJ as President and continues to devote time and talent to the organization with her trademark energy, commitment, and vigor.


Leonard M. Ring Champion of Justice Award

Les Weisbrod of Miller Weisbrod Olesky was honored for being a fierce advocate for victims of medical malpractice and a defender of their right to seek justice. A past President and 40-year AAJ member, Weisbrod has made significant contributions to the association and led a distinguished career in birth injury, attaining nationwide recognition as a champion for countless patients and families.


Trial Lawyers Care Award

Jon Perry of Rosen & Perry, P.C. was recognized for founding Pennies for Heaven with his wife to help families of children receiving significant medical care. When his 2-year-old son Trevor was being treated, Jon noticed many children alone in their hospital rooms because their parents were unable to afford to miss work. Heartbroken at this reality, Jon started Pennies from Heaven to provide funds so that families can stay together during their child's treatment without the concern of lost wages, utility bills or even mortgage payments.


Harry Philo Award

Gerson Smoger of Smoger & Associates, P.C. was recognized for his outstanding contributions to civil justice and advancing the safety and protection of American consumers. He has dedicated his life to protecting civil justice, writing countless amicus briefs for AAJ pro bono, and fighting for justice in numerous cases from Agent Orange to "Light" cigarettes and corporate misconduct.


Howard Twiggs Award

Bruce Stern of Stark & Stark was recognized for bringing honor to the trial bar and legal profession as an exceptional advocate for his clients with brain injuries. Stern guided AAJ through the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic as the organization’s President and served with great integrity and determination.


David S. Shrager President’s Award

Tom D’Amore of D’Amore Law Group was recognized as making an immense contribution to AAJ and the trial bar by devoting significant time and talent to the organization, including many years of service to time-consuming and important committees.


Leonard Weinglass in Defense of Civil Liberties Award

Beth Baldinger of Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman, LLC was recognized for her outstanding advocacy in civil rights and crime victims’ rights. In 2022, Baldinger successfully represented Xavier Ingram who was paralyzed by the Camden County Police in a landmark police brutality case.


CONTACT Carly Moore Sfregola Email: Carly.Sfregola@justice.org Phone: 202.684.9609