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Here’s a report from the state bar convention, where Judge Lackey got his award before a crowd of a 200+. The report is from law student Samantha Weathersby, who is law clerking for me.

The Chief Justice Award was presented to Judge Lackey by Chief Justice Smith. The Chief Justice began with saying, “Good morning!” and went on to thank Bobby Bailess, on behalf of the judiciary of MS, “for getting us through this trying and hard time that the law profession has experienced over the last year.” He then began to speak of Judge Lackey. He said that Judge Lackey’s resume is so long that he would be embarrassed to go through it all. The Chief
Justice spoke of Lackey’s family . . . his wife and 2 sons. The Chief Justice said that, “Lackey was the very epitome of what we are all and should be about. We are here today to recognize an individual who did everything he is supposed to do according to the statutes and the canons.” Judge Lackey was called to the podium and everyone stood and applauded.

Judge Lackey said that he accepted this award with mixed feelings. He accepted it on behalf of all judges who simply do their jobs. Judge Lackey spoke of judges and members of the bar who represent clients and the law without any thought of applause. Judge Lackey concluded with thanking everyone for his opportunity to work.

As for the Judicial Excellence Award . . . . Bobby Bailess spoke of how judges receive this award that exemplify the quality of this office. Bailess spoke of past recipients. Bailess did not repeat any background info since the Chief Justice already had done so. Bailess went on to describe Judge Lackey (with a broken voice) using words, such as: honesty, integrity, consistency, decisiveness, fair, impartial, sense of duty, judicial temperament, gentle, and courageous. Bailess said that it was an honor and privilege (with tears) to present this award to Judge Lackey. Lackey accepted the award, again to a standing ovation (the only two standing ovations were for Lackey). Lackey did not have any comments for this award. Bailess added at the end that Lackey is also quite the comedian.