A tribute to Hon. George Bundy Smith: a good lawyer.

• Jurisdiction: United States
• Date: 01 April 2007
• Author: Alcott, Mark H.

A Freedom Rider and veteran of the civil rights movement. A distinguished jurist who scaled the highest peaks of our profession but remained a humble public servant. A dedicated teacher and exceptional writer. A devoted family man of exemplary character, brilliant and deeply committed, yet gentle and modest.

Those who know and work with Judge George Bundy Smith have said--and tonight, I am sure, will repeat--these and many additional wonderful things about him. Although I doubt he would ever admit it, he is overwhelmingly worthy of this abundant praise and this evening of honor.

For myself, and on behalf of the New York State Bar Association, I am honored to be a part of this tribute.

Judge Smith's career has been marked, above all else, by an exceptional devotion to public service. To him, this is the unique obligation and the great opportunity of those who carry the proud title "attorney at law." In a graduation address given at this very institution, Judge Smith stated that good lawyers...