The Ramsey County Bar Association is presenting three annual awards this November, recognizing service to the local legal profession and community. The RCBA’s Distinguished Humanitarian Service Award, the Liberty Bell Award, and the Pro Bono Award will be presented during the Ramsey County Bar Foundation’s Virtual Bench & Bar Benefit, taking place November 3, 4, and 5.
Distinguished Humanitarian Service Award: Evan Tsai (Presented on November 3)
The Distinguished Humanitarian Service Award is given to an individual who demonstrates outstanding leadership in the development of law in the community and commitment to humanitarian service to the bar and the community. This year’s recipient is Evan Tsai, a defense attorney for the League of Minnesota Cities. A Marine Corps veteran and former public defender, Tsai helped form the Ramsey County Veterans Treatment Court, which connects veterans with resources to help overcome difficulties that led to criminal activity.
Liberty Bell Award: Court Visitor Program in Memory of Dennis Libra (Presented on November 4)
The recipient of the Liberty Bell Award is an individual who has been involved in activities that promote a better understanding of the law and our government. This year, the award is being given to the Court Visitor Program in memory of Dennis Libra. The Court Visitor program allows for neutral parties to assist individuals in guardianship and conservatorship proceedings. Libra was a contracted court visitor for many years and passed away in January of 2020.
Pro Bono Award: Karen Tarrant (Presented on November 5)
The Pro Bono Award is given to an individual who has demonstrated dedication to providing pro bono legal services to disadvantaged individuals and nonprofit organizations. This year’s recipient is Karen Tarrant. Tarrant has been a volunteer pro bono attorney with Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services (SMRLS) for nearly 40 years.
More information about the RCBA awards
More information about the RCBF Benefit