ITLA Awards & Honorees

At the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, we celebrate the individuals and organizations who go above and beyond to advance justice, protect consumers, and defend the rights of all Hoosiers. Our annual awards honor exemplary contributions across a variety of fields, highlighting those who embody the mission and values of ITLA.

Learn more about each award and our incredible recipients below:

Consumer Advocate of the Year

This award recognizes a Hoosier—whether an attorney or not—who has made significant contributions to consumer protection. Past recipients are those who have fought tirelessly to ensure that all Hoosiers enjoy a fair quality of life. These advocates champion the rights of working men and women, stand up for justice for those who cannot represent themselves, and strive to make Indiana a better place for all. Click to see a list of previous recipients. 

Hoosier Freedom Award

The Hoosier Freedom Award is presented to an individual or organization whose courageous efforts, groundbreaking litigation, or innovative work have helped create a more just society. Recipients are recognized for their commitment to justice and for driving meaningful change within our communities. Click to see a list of previous recipients. 

Journalist of the Year Award

This award honors a journalist or reporting organization whose work has deepened the public’s understanding of the law and the importance of the civil justice system. Through impactful reporting, commentary, or editorials, recipients help protect consumers and injured individuals while advocating for transparency and fairness within our legal system. Click to see a list of previous recipients. 

Legislator of the Year Award

Each year, ITLA recognizes a state lawmaker whose leadership and actions promote a fair civil justice system and uphold the principle of open access to the courts for all Hoosiers. This award celebrates those legislators who champion justice and stand up for the rights of Indiana citizens. Click to see a list of previous recipients. 

Max Goodwin Young Lawyer Award

This award is named in honor of Max Goodwin, a distinguished Indiana trial lawyer and past ITLA president, who was known for his relentless devotion to justice and his clients. Max embodied a never-give-up attitude, a practical approach to solving life’s challenges, and a deep sense of humanity. The Max Goodwin Young Lawyer Award is presented to a rising attorney who demonstrates the same passion, perseverance, and dedication that made Max Goodwin a revered figure in our profession. Click to see a list of previous recipients. 

Trial Lawyer of the Year Award

The Trial Lawyer of the Year Award is one of ITLA’s most prestigious honors. Recipients are selected based on their exceptional contributions to the legal profession, their advocacy for injured victims and consumers, and their tireless defense of civil justice. Award criteria include:

• Successfully handling a case of major public importance.
• Defending the rights of consumers and injured victims at the state or national level.
• Substantial contributions to ITLA through service, advocacy, and education.
• Publishing and presenting work that promotes the mission of ITLA and earns respect for trial lawyers.

This award celebrates individuals who inspire admiration, uphold the honor of the legal profession, and leave a lasting impact on our communities. Click to see a list of previous recipients.

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award honors an attorney whose career exemplifies outstanding service to the legal profession, unwavering dedication to the rights of Hoosiers, and extraordinary contributions to ITLA. Recipients have left an indelible mark on their colleagues, the legal community, and Indiana as a whole. This award reflects a lifetime of advocacy, mentorship, and the pursuit of justice. Click to see a list of previous recipients. 

Celebrate Our Past Recipients
Throughout the years, ITLA has had the privilege of honoring exceptional individuals who exemplify the best of our profession. From advocates and legislators to journalists and young attorneys, each recipient has played a vital role in advancing ITLA’s mission and shaping Indiana’s legal landscape.

Ready to learn more about our honorees or nominate someone for an award? Contact us today. 317-634-8841