Congratulations to two amazing and dynamic duos!
Richard & Susanne Sichta Named 2026 Recipients of the John R. Hamilton Pro Bono Award
The Appellate Practice Section is proud to recognize Rick and Susanne Sichta ofJacksonville as the 2026 recipients of the John R. Hamilton Pro Bono Award. Thisaward honors Section members who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to expanding access to justice through pro bono appellate work.
For many years, the Sichtas have devoted substantial time and effort to representing criminal defendants in need of pro bono appellate assistance. Their work has included significant appellate matters undertaken through the Florida Coastal and Cooley law clinics, as well as numerous other cases that have provided meaningful access to appellate review for individuals who otherwise may not have been able to obtain representation.
In addition to their direct advocacy, the Sichtas have played an important role in encouraging and supporting pro bono service throughout the appellate bar. Through an online network they developed and maintain, they have helped connect attorneys with opportunities to provide pro bono appellate representation, expanding the reach and impact of volunteer legal services across Florida.
The Hamilton Award recognizes significant devotion to pro bono appellate matters. Through their tireless advocacy, longstanding commitment to service, and efforts to inspire others to participate in pro bono work, Rick and Susanne Sichta have made a lasting contribution to access to justice in Florida.
The Appellate Practice Section is honored to present them with this well-deserved recognition.
The Honorable Morris Silberman & The Honorable Nelly Khouzam Named 2026 Recipients of the James C Adkins Award
The Appellate Practice Section is proud to announce that, for the first time in the award’s history, the Section has selected two recipients for the James C. Adkins Award: Judges Morris Silberman and Nelly Khouzam of Florida’s Second District Court of Appeal.
The Adkins Award honors members of The Florida Bar who have made significant contributions to Florida appellate practice. Together and individually, Judges Silberman and Khouzam have devoted decades of service to strengthening Florida’s appellate courts, supporting the appellate bar, and advancing the profession. They are models of collegiality, professionalism, and service to the Bar, the Section, and the judiciary.
Judge Silberman has been closely involved with the Appellate Practice Section since its formation in the 1990s and has served for many years as the Second District Court of Appeal’s liaison to the Section. Throughout that time, he has been a trusted advisor and consistent presence at Executive Council meetings, providing guidance, perspective, and support to generations of Section leaders. He has also been a longstanding advocate for improvements to Florida’s appellate courts, including efforts that ultimately helped lead to the establishment of a permanent new courthouse for the Second District.
Judge Khouzam has likewise been an extraordinary supporter of the Section and the appellate community. A familiar presence at Section retreats, receptions, and CLE programs, she has generously shared her time as a speaker, mentor, and ambassador for appellate practice. She is widely recognized for her commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive appellate bar. Through her encouragement and mentorship, she has helped strengthen the sense of community that defines Florida appellate practice.
The Section is honored to recognize Judges Silberman and Khouzam for their exceptional contributions to appellate practice, their dedicated service to the profession, and their unwavering commitment to the appellate community in Florida.
