Debtor Assistance Project Annual Pro Bono Award Reception Photos

From left to right: Judge Thomas Donovan, Retired Judge William Lasarow, Philomena Nzegge (Honoree), Chief Judge Barry Russell, Jason Wallach (Honoree), Marisa Hawkins (Honoree), Judge Vincent Zurzolo

On January 18, 2006, the Debtor Assistance Project hosted its annual pro bono award reception at The Standard Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. The following individuals received the Project's highest honor, the William J. Lasarow Award for Outstanding Pro Bono Service in Bankruptcy:

The awards were presented by Chief Judge Barry Russell, Judge Vincent Zurzolo, Judge Thomas Donovan and Retired Judge William J. Lasarow of the United States Bankruptcy Court.

Last year was a pivotal year for the Debtor Assistance Project in light of the bankruptcy reform law of 2005 and its impact on low-income debtors. A record number of 83,739 bankruptcy cases were filed in the Central District of California, representing an increase of almost 25% from filings in 2004. With the help of pro bono attorneys, the Debtor Assistance Project helped over 1100 individuals last year with bankruptcy services. We are proud of the Project's continued success in meeting the legal needs of the low-income community.

The Debtor Assistance Project would like to give special thank the three honorees, bankruptcy judges and the District Court's Attorney Admissions Fund for making its annual event a huge success. For more information about volunteer opportunities at the Debtor Assistance Project, please contact Dovie Yoana King at (213) 385-2977 ext. 115 or dking@publiccounsel.org.