It may look like a lowly bowling trophy, which originally it was, but this is actually a very valuable recycled piece of plastic: the inaugural award for Texas Tech University School of Law American Inns of Court (AIC) “Best Inn of Court Program” for 2015-2016. Chuck Lanehart and his team, Maryam Arastu, Professor Wendy Humphrey, Judge Judy Parker, Frank Sellers, Professor Rob Sherwin, and Bill Wade were presented the award April 26.

The winning program, “A Leprechaun’s Guide to DWI,” was presented to the local AIC chapter earlier this year and was the first to be honored locally. The program has also been nominated for a national American Inns of Court award. The team used humor and technology to focus on the need to better inform the public as to (1) the continuing problem of drunk driving accidents/deaths, (2) how DWI laws are harsh and carry many collateral consequences, and (3) what can be done to enforce DWI laws without violating basic civil rights.

The team not only won the repurposed travelling bowling trophy, but also received a $500 check to be donated to a charity of their choice. In keeping with the theme of the program, the team decided on a donation to MADD.

American Inns of Court is an association of lawyers, judges, and other legal professionals from all levels and backgrounds who share a passion for professional excellence. Through regular meetings, members are able to build and strengthen professional relationships; discuss fundamental concerns about professionalism and pressing legal issues of the day; share experiences and advice; exhort the utmost passion and dedication for the law; provide mentoring opportunities; and advance the highest levels of integrity, ethics, and civility.

The first American Inn of Court was founded in 1980 in Utah. The Texas Tech University School of Law Inn of Court was established in 2011, and has about 70 members.