USC Mock Trial Award named in Williams’ honor
COLUMBIA, SC – A new award named in honor of Callison Tighe partner D. Reece Williams III will go annually to two University of South Carolina Law School students, a trial lawyer’s organization has announced.
The South Carolina Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates created the award, which also will carry a cash prize for the team that wins the University of South Carolina Mock Trial Competition every spring.
Williams has been a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates, where membership is restricted to attorneys who have completed at least 50 jury trials, since 1989. He served as national president in 2000 – the only South Carolina lawyer to be elected to that position. He’s also a member of the organization’s Continuing Legal Education faculty.
The South Carolina chapter executive committee is recognizing Williams’ service to the organization and his commitment to legal education with the new award. Each of the two members of the winning Mock Trial team will receive $750, as well as a clock inscribed with the achievement. A plaque listing the winners’ names will be displayed in the law school as well.
“The skills that future lawyers hone by participating in Mock Trial are invaluable once they become working professionals,” Williams said. “I’m deeply honored that the executive board has chosen to create an award at my alma mater in my name for such an important program.”
South Carolina’s Trial Lawyer of the Year in 2006, Williams long has been involved in legal education throughout South Carolina and the country. He’s a frequent speaker at continuing legal education seminars and workshops, and he’s appeared in more than 40 trial demonstrations in more than 30 states. He’s also authored articles for legal publications.
