District Court Judge Lou Olivera has received the Chief Justice's Commission on Professionalism (CJCP) Award for Meritorious and Extraordinary Service. Court of Appeals Chief Judge Linda McGee presented the award, on behalf of Chief Justice Mark Martin, on Friday, July 22, at the Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock.

"The Chief Justice's Commission on Professionalism presents the CJCP Award for Meritorious and Extraordinary Service to the Honorable Lou Olivera for his steadfast commitment to the principles of professionalism as evidenced by his efforts to go above and beyond the call of duty by his tremendous act of humility and compassion toward a troubled veteran in his court," said Chief Justice Martin. "Because of his selfless efforts, the practice of law will continue to remain a high calling in North Carolina."

The CJCP Award for Meritorious and Extraordinary Service recognizes and honors members of the legal profession, who exhibit the highest professional standards throughout their careers, and by their conduct, make special contributions to the furtherance of professional standards and to the cause of equal justice under the law often through the exercise of personal courage. Judge Olivera is the sixth recipient of the award.

"It's an incredible honor to be recognized with the Commission's award," said Judge Olivera. "Being a judge has allowed me the opportunity to meet and help our citizens in this great state, especially veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country."

Judge Olivera has served Judicial District 12 (Cumberland County) since elected to the bench in 2012. He previously served as an assistant district attorney in Cumberland County, as well as a private attorney.

ABOUT
The primary charge of the Chief Justice's Commission on Professionalism (CJCP), chaired by Chief Justice Mark Martin, is to enhance professionalism among North Carolina judges, lawyers and law students. In carrying out this charge, the CJCP is responsible for providing ongoing attention and assistance through a variety of programs, projects and publications, in order to ensure that the practice of law remains a high calling, dedicated to the service of clients and the public good.