Recommended Reading
A Measure of Endurance: The Unlikely Triumph of Steven Sharp
2007 Recipient | All Past Recipients
The Steven J. Sharp Public Service Award is presented annually to those attorneys and clients whose cases tell the story of American civil justice and help educate state and national policy makers and the public about the importance of consumers’ rights.
Who Is Steven J. Sharp?
The award is named for Steven J. Sharp [pictured] of Richland, Oregon, who lost both arms in 1992 to a defective tractor hay baler when he was 17 years old. The tractor manufacturer knew one person had been mangled, and another decapitated, by this defectively designed product. Yet, company executives did nothing, even though a small 70-cent part would have fixed the problem. For 70 cents, Steven could still have his arms.
At the time of Steven's case, legislation was pending that would have barred him from taking his case against the manufacturer to court. He spoke out to show lawmakers how legislation to limit access to the courts would deprive people like him of justice.
Steven's case had a positive effect on Capitol Hill and ultimately helped convince President Clinton to veto this unfair legislation. What happened to Steven shouldn't happen to anyone else. But if it does, they should have a chance to seek justice too.
Nominate A Case
If you know of an outstanding case you would like to nominate for the 2008 award, please fill out the online submission form or send us the following information:
Fax (202) 342-5484
Email cases@justice.org
ATTN: Steven J. Sharp Public Service Award, AAJ
1050 31st. Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20007-4499
All Nominations Due by April 25, 2008
Contact:
Patricia Cooley
202-965-3500 x527
Patricia.Cooley@justice.org
