Minneapolis:
-- The Hennepin County Bar Association (HCBA) recognizes two individuals each year—a judge and a lawyer—for their commitment to the highest of professional standards in the legal community. These professionalism awards are granted in the belief that professionalism serves the best interests of clients, fosters respect and trust between lawyers and the public, promotes the efficient resolution of disputes, and improves the administration of justice. The 2010 Professionalism Awards will be presented at theAnnual Meeting of the HCBA, Thursday, May 20, recognizing the Honorable Jay Quam, judge of the 4th Judicial District (Hennepin County) Court, and Gray Plant Mooty attorney, Gene H. Hennig.
Judge Jay Quam will receive the 2010 Professionalism Award recognizing his devotion to the profession and to the rule of law as well as the independence of the judiciary.
“He exudes intelligence, charm, wisdom, kindness, and respect for everyone who appears before him in court, and in every other interaction,” said Judge Lloyd Zimmerman. “He models integrity, ethics, and professionalism—he is a judge’s judge, and yet, outside of work, you could talk to him for hours and not know that he’s a judge.”
Quam is currently the presiding judge in probate/mental health court, a position that—according to Zimmerman—requires “more empathy, sensitivity, and nerves of steel than almost any judicial position.” Previously, he served as the assistant chief judge in family courts, perhaps the busiest, most demanding, and overworked section of the court.
In addition to his judicial duties, Quam has led the Master Trial Lawyer professional development series for HCBA members, moderating each program covering every aspect of trial from opening, jury selection, direct, cross, closing, and beyond. He also has been a champion for pro bono work and public service through various initiatives and organizations.
A graduate of Moorhead State University and University of Minnesota Law School, Quam was a well-respected litigator prior taking the bench in 2006.
Gene H. Hennig is the recipient of the 2010 Professionalism Award for a lawyer. The annual award is presented to a member of the Hennepin County Bar who “best exemplifies the pursuit of the practice of law as a profession, including the spirit of public service and promotion of the highest level of competence, integrity, and ethical conduct.”
“His word is his bond; he is always prepared; and he treats all persons with respect and kindness,” said Jan M. Gunderson, Hennig’s former law partner.
Hennig attended Valparaiso University for undergraduate studies and law school. Currently, he is member of Gray Plant Mooty’s Business Advisory Group. Hennig has served the bar and community as a law professor, a firm leader, a scholar in business law, and a lawyer who provides the highest quality of representation to his clients.
The Hennepin County Bar Association is the largest of Minnesota’s local bar associations, with a membership of 8,400 members, serving the profession and the public.