On Friday, July 22, 2016, at its annual convention held in Los Angeles, California, the American Association for Justice (“AAJ”), the nation’s largest trial lawyer organization, recognized Ira Leesfield for his extraordinary, consistent and long term dedication to help the less fortunate Americans and the South Florida community through difficult times.
The organization’s prestigious Trial Lawyers Care Award is presented to the trial lawyer who has made a difference, as has Ira Leesfield and the Leesfield Family Foundation, by funding over 25 law school scholarships around the country, as well as a quarter of a century commitment to women and minority law students, in addition to dedicating financial assistance to dozens of local, national and international women’s and children’s non-profit organizations.
Most recently, the Foundation reacted quickly to the terrorist massacre in Orlando, Florida by supporting OneOrlando Fund, to assist victims and families of the Orlando/Pulse tragedy, followed timely aid to the Dallas Foundation Line of Duty Fund for police officers killed during an attack of a peaceful protest in Dallas, TX. That effort was consistent with an immediate response to the victims of Hurricane Sandy, victims of the Tennessee floods and the earthquake in Haiti. In all, over 90 organizations have received financial support to reconcile economic disadvantage.
Leesfield was a scholarship recipient in college and law school, and feels compelled to “pay it forward.” “When I was a student, people were generous and concerned about me and my future. Without their help, I probably would not have gone to college or law school,” said Leesfield, who worked after-school and weekend jobs to help his single mother in keeping his family together.
To quote AAJ President Larry Tawwater, “Ira has made a commitment to giving back to people who may need some extra help, and he has been there for them for more than 20 years. His dedication and consistency has made a positive difference in so many peoples’ lives.”
Leesfield has been recognized national and international organizations for his Foundation’s low cost and rapid response to those in need. “It would be inconceivable for me to go through life, do well as a lawyer, and not give others an opportunity to do the same.” Leesfield said. “Trial lawyers work every day with people who are vulnerable. We understand that there are many in the world who are in need, and we want to help.”
About Trial Lawyers Care
Trial Lawyers Care launched on September 24, 2001 after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, trial lawyers pledged help the most vulnerable members of our communities. They promised to provide free legal services to any family who applied for help from a newly created federal fund. The organization encourages and recognizes trial lawyers who contribute to their communities through volunteer and charitable activities that serve the public good.