Covington Awards

WHAT DO WE DO ?

Each year, Volunteer Legal Services (VLS) proudly hosts the Covington Awards Ceremony, a special event dedicated to recognizing the outstanding contributions of our most committed individual volunteers and law firms from the previous year. These prestigious awards are named in honor of the Honorable Judge Suzanne Covington, whose legacy of service and advocacy continues to inspire our mission.

Judge Suzanne Covington served with distinction on the 201st District Court for 15 years, where she was known for her fairness, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. Before ascending to the bench, Judge Covington devoted a significant portion of her legal career to public interest law. She worked with several of the nation’s leading legal aid organizations, including DNA-People’s Legal Services in Arizona, Greater Boston Legal Services, and the Legal Aid Society of Central Texas. Her work in these roles reflected a deep dedication to ensuring access to justice for underserved and marginalized communities.

In addition to her judicial and legal aid work, Judge Covington served as Director of the Children’s Rights Clinic at The University of Texas School of Law, where she mentored and trained the next generation of public interest attorneys. Her influence extended beyond the courtroom and classroom, as she also served as a valued member of the VLS Board of Directors, helping to shape the direction and impact of our organization.

Through the Covington Awards, we are honored to celebrate Judge Covington’s enduring legacy and to recognize those who, like her, exemplify the spirit of pro bono service. These awards serve as a tribute to her lifelong commitment to justice, equity, and community empowerment.

“For the health of our justice system nothing is more essential than the perception, backed by reality, of a level playing field, a fair chance for all.  That’s why I strongly believe that the work you do on your pro-bono cases is the most important work you will do in your career as a lawyer, for your clients, for your community and for yourself.”
 – Judge Suzanne Covington