The Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services (TALS) will present David R. Yoder, executive director of Legal Aid of East Tennessee, with the Janice M. Holder Award at the 2015 Access to Justice Awards on Wednesday, Sept. 2.
The Holder Award honors an individual who has advanced the quality of justice statewide by ensuring that the legal system is open and available to all. Yoder is being recognized for his many contributions to increasing access to justice in Tennessee, especially in the areas of domestic violence advocacy and medical-legal partnerships.
“It is very humbling to be recognized for doing something that has been professionally and personally rewarding,” said Yoder. “Receiving the Janice M. Holder: Access to Justice Award is a special honor in light of the tremendous accomplishments and leadership provided by Justice Holder. I thank Justice Holder, the Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services, and everyone who made this possible.”
“Nearly 18 percent of Tennesseans live in poverty and struggle with legal problems relating to basic human needs,” said Ann Pruitt, executive director of TALS. “That’s why it’s critical for lawyers to make their services accessible to those in need. Our award honorees were chosen as the best advocates at expanding access to justice in Tennessee.”