The New Jersey State Bar Association’s Civil Trial Bar Section will host its annual James J. McLaughlin Award ceremony on Feb. 11 at The Park Chateau in East Brunswick. The awards recognize the highest standard of civility, legal competence and professionalism in the practice of civil law.
This year’s honorees are retired state Supreme Court Justice Faustino J. Fernandez-Vina of Parker McCay, Michael G. Donahue of Stark & Stark P.C. and former Monmouth County Assignment Judge Lisa P. Thornton, who died in May 2023. State Supreme Court Chief Justice Stuart J. Rabner will pay tribute to the trio and provide a keynote address. Register for the ceremony here.
Here are the honorees:
Justice Faustino J. Fernandez-Vina
Justice Fernandez-Vina is an 18-year veteran of the bench. He was the first Latino nominated to the Camden County Superior Court. There, Fernandez-Vina served in the Family Division and as Presiding Judge of the Civil Division before elevating to the state Supreme Court for nine years. Prior to his tenure as a judge, he tried cases to verdict in each of New Jersey’s 15 Superior Court Vicinages. He has a breadth of knowledge, experience and objectivity that continues to inspire both new attorneys and experienced litigators.
Assignment Judge Lisa P. Thornton
Assignment Judge Thornton was the first Black female assignment judge in New Jersey history. A devoted and respected public servant, Judge Thornton's legacy is that of a gifted jurist, trailblazer and leader who served as a role model and mentor for young attorneys of diverse backgrounds. For her lifelong dedication to the pursuit of justice and achieving diversity in the legal profession, the NJSBA established the Lisa P. Thornton Memorial Scholarship for young women seeking to attend law school.
Michael G. Donahue
Donohue is the managing shareholder of Stark & Stark. He oversees the day-to-day operations and long-term strategic planning of the firm. He specializes in products liability litigation, and represents victims of construction accidents, commercial vehicle accidents, sexual abuse and other serious injuries. Donahue also serves as a leader in professional associations dedicated to protecting the right to a jury trial and preserving access to justice.