Tri-City lawyer, judge win state bar awards

The Washington State Bar Association honored a Tri-Cities judge and lawyer at a September ceremony in Seattle.

Eddie Morfin received the Pro Bono and Public Service Award for his work with clients who can’t afford an attorney as well as his work to start a free legal advice clinic in Benton and Franklin counties, according to a news release from the bar.

He’s also volunteered for the Latino/a Bar Association’s clinics and worked for justice and immigrant rights, according to the release.

“He strives to be a mentor and an example for youth in his community,” the association said.

Presiding Judge Bruce Spanner received the Outstanding Judge Award “because of his devotion to equal justice under the law without bias or prejudice, and his deep involvement in his community,” the release said.

Spanner became a judge in 2009. He’s been active with the Kiwanis, Habitat for Humanity, March of Dimes and the Water Follies.

This story was originally published October 6, 2018 at 11:20 AM.