AWARDS DESCRIPTIONS

UMBA wishes to recognize firms, attorneys, and judges who promote diversity and demonstrate commitment to underserved populations, especially within the legal community.  Below is a list of additional awards that UMBA has presented in the past.

UMBA Distinguished Lawyer of the Year. This award goes to a member of the Utah State Bar who has demonstrated achievement or dedication to objectives consistent with the mission and purpose of UMBA. 

UMBA Law Firm of the Year. This award goes to a law firm in Utah that has demonstrated achievement or dedication to objectives consistent with the mission and purpose of UMBA.

Judge Raymond Uno Lifetime Achievement Award. This award is named after the Honorable Judge Raymond Uno, one of Utah’s First 50 minority attorneys, who contributed extensively to the legal profession in Utah. This award goes to a Utah Judge who has excelled in the legal community and has made substantial contribution toward the mission and purpose of UMBA.

Pete Suazo Community Service Award. This award is named after the late Senator Pete Suazo, who dedicated his life to service to minority communities. The award goes to a member of the community (whether a lawyer or non-lawyer) who serves minority communities.

Jimi Mitsunaga Excellence in the Law Award. This award is named in honor of the late Jimi Mitsunaga, one of the First 50 minority attorneys in Utah, who contributed much to the legal profession in Utah and who worked tirelessly to promote the provision of legal services to underserved communities, including minority communities. The award goes to a member of the Utah State Bar who has excelled in the practice of criminal law or has made a substantial contribution toward the mission and purpose of UMBA.

Juneteenth Fundraiser Award. This award goes to a law firm or attorney team in Utah who raises the most money for UMBA's annual Juneteenth Fundraiser. Each year, UMBA hosts this fundraiser on behalf of a local nonprofit organization committed to serving underprivileged communities.

Friend of UMBA Award. This award goes to an individual or law firm who has demonstrated a consistent commitment to increasing diversity and inclusion with the legal profession.