Michigan Bar Launches New Civility Award

The state legal organization honors the legacy of late court security officer Norm Naimy with a new award.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Awards

Michigan Bar Launches New Civility Award

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Should justice system workers be formally recognized for showing compassion to everyone they interact with?

The Criminal Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan has established the Norm Naimy Civility & Humanity Award to recognize professionals in the criminal justice system. The honor serves as a tribute to Naimy, a former Lansing police officer and St. Johns court security deputy who passed away in 2025.

Why it matters

This award highlights the importance of empathy and respect within the justice system by honoring those who demonstrate exceptional compassion. It aims to institutionalize these human values as essential traits for individuals working in legal and law enforcement environments across the state.

Nominations for the inaugural 2026-27 award cycle are currently open for individuals who demonstrate professionalism and respect for human dignity. Submissions for the award must be sent via email to Edwar Zeineh or the criminal law section.

The players

Norm Naimy

He was a dedicated public servant who worked as a Lansing police officer and later as a court security deputy in St. Johns.

Julie Naimy

She is the individual who received a commemorative plaque on behalf of the family during the formal recognition ceremony.

State Bar of Michigan

This professional organization represents attorneys in the state and oversees the standards and conduct of the legal profession.

Edwar Zeineh

He serves as a point of contact for the submission of award nominations to the Criminal Law Section.

The details

Julie Naimy accepted a plaque representing the new award during a ceremony held at the courthouse on October 28, 2026. The program specifically recognizes members of the criminal justice system who embody the principles of kindness and humanity that defined Naimy's career.

Norm Naimy passed away in late 2025.
A plaque presentation ceremony took place on October 28, 2026.
Nominations are open for the 2026-27 award cycle.

Culture Shift

The creation of this award reflects a growing movement within the legal profession to prioritize human-centric values alongside traditional legal expertise. By formalizing this recognition, the Bar aligns its cultural initiatives with established standards like the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct.

Legal professionals and court employees across Michigan can now participate in this new nomination process to highlight peers who demonstrate exceptional character. Adopting these values may influence workplace culture by encouraging more compassionate interactions within the local criminal justice system.

The takeaway

Recognizing civility in high-stress professions like law enforcement and the judiciary helps maintain public trust and professional morale. Consider nominating colleagues who consistently model respectful, human-dignity-focused behavior to help set a higher standard for your own professional community.