Samuel Alexander Receives 2025 John R. Hamilton Pro Bono Award
Samuel Alexander Receives the 2025 John R. Hamilton Pro Bono Award for Exceptional Service
We are proud to announce that appellate attorney Samuel Alexander, outgoing co-chair of the Appellate Practice Section’s Pro Bono Committee, has been named the 2025 recipient of the prestigious John R. Hamilton Pro Bono Award. This esteemed recognition honors individuals who have shown extraordinary dedication to expanding access to justice through pro bono appellate work, and Samuel’s efforts have truly set him apart in this important field.
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation in Pro Bono Service
Samuel Alexander’s work with the Appellate Practice Section’s Pro Bono Committee has been transformative. He has served on the committee for several years and played a pivotal role in improving the section’s response to requests for appellate assistance. Recognizing the increasing demand for pro bono services, Samuel took the initiative to design and implement a formal intake system. This new structure streamlined and standardized the process, allowing the section to manage requests more efficiently and consistently.
“As the number of requests grew, Sam led the section’s efforts to partner with legal aid organizations across Florida, ensuring that individuals in need could still access appellate representation while minimizing the time-consuming administrative work for volunteers,” the Appellate Practice Section remarked. This strategic change has significantly improved the delivery of pro bono appellate services, aligning with the section’s mission to serve the public good.
Samuel’s Contributions Extend Beyond Leadership
In addition to his leadership in structuring the Pro Bono Committee’s efforts, Samuel has contributed countless hours and resources to support pro bono initiatives. He has helped organize and promote events and Continuing Legal Education (CLE) programs that encourage and celebrate pro bono service. Notably, Samuel has worked with the Guardian ad Litem Program, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to critical legal services. His efforts also include recognizing outstanding volunteer attorneys who exemplify a commitment to service.
Throughout his career, Samuel has personally handled numerous pro bono appeals, further solidifying his dedication to expanding access to justice for those who need it most.
A Bright Future for Appellate Pro Bono Work in Florida
The Appellate Practice Section notes that through Samuel’s “leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to service,” he has “significantly advanced the section’s pro bono efforts.” His work has helped create a “more sustainable framework for appellate pro bono work in Florida,” ensuring that more individuals in need of legal representation can receive the help they deserve.
Samuel Alexander’s recognition with the 2025 John R. Hamilton Pro Bono Award is a well-deserved acknowledgment of his outstanding contributions to the legal profession and the Florida community. His continued efforts will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the landscape of appellate pro bono work.
About the John R. Hamilton Pro Bono Award
The John R. Hamilton Pro Bono Award is given annually to a member of the Appellate Practice Section who has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to pro bono appellate service. This prestigious award honors those who have gone above and beyond to improve access to justice, and Samuel Alexander is a shining example of what it means to lead with purpose and compassion in the legal profession.
For more information on how Samuel Alexander and the Appellate Practice Section are helping shape the future of pro bono appellate work, or to learn how you can get involved, contact our Florida appellate lawyers today.