News Room

The John J. Copelan, Jr., Award is presented to a member of the Florida Bar who has made significant contributions to the field of public interest law. This year’s award will be presented to Peter Sleasman of our Gainesville Regional Office. For more than 30 years, Peter has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to representing the most vulnerable and disenfranchised residents through his civil legal aid practice. Peter has transformed the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of low-income individuals through his direct representation and impact litigation. His pursuit of justice is relentless and, as a result, he inspires his colleagues every day to think creatively, be patient in one’s advocacy, and, above all, always consider what best serves the needs and ends of one’s clients.