Evans brothers, S-E mock trial awarded at Law Day celebration

NORWICH – The Chenango County Bar Association celebrated the heritage of civil service, freedom and justice during the 54th annual National Law Day Friday, awarding two former Town of Norwich justices and the Sherburne-Earlville Mock Trial Team.
This year’s Law Day theme, “No Courts, No Justice, No Freedom,” recalls the influential and historic role that America’s courts have played in fostering the rights and liberties of all citizens. Preceeding the award presentations, Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Garry read aloud a proclamation from President Obama that stressed the importance of the nation’s courts, stating: “We need to do everything we can to enable their critical work ... the timeless principles of due process remain at the heart of our democracy.”
Supreme Court Judge Kevin Dowd also discussed the role law plays in maintaining civil order: “We are called upon, rightly or wrongly to solve disputes. This is one of those days you take a moment and reflect on what it’s all about ... It’s about caring about what you’re doing. It’s about caring about the people you service.”
John Cameron, president of the Chenango County Bar Association, presented the Evans brothers of Norwich with the Liberty Bell Award, recognizing the significant impact each has had in the local court system over the years and the influence they have had on other members of the Bar Association.
Former Chenango County Treasurer Bill Evans was honored for handling nearly 6,000 cases during his tenure as Norwich Town Justice. Elected justice at the age of 25, he kept his seat for 36 years. He also served on the town council and town Industrial Development Agency, and operated and managed the family dairy farm.
“Every once in a while, someone comes along who is special,” said former Chenango County Sheriff Thomas Loughren. “He (Evans) is a true leader and that tradition continued on.”
In accepting the award, Evans said his actions have always been a “team effort” and thanked his wife, Linda, for her support.
“Public service is truly a trade that was instilled in us at a young age,” he said. “I’m thankful to have been raised by a wonderful family and be part of a supportive family.”
Evans’ younger brother, David, was also presented the same award for his outstanding citizenship and dedication to justice.
David Evans served the community on the Cornell Cooperative Extension Board of Directors and the Norwich Town Planning Board prior to being elected Town Justice. He presided over 18,000 cases during his tenure, while also working with his family in marketing and distributing yogurt and dairy products for their business, Sunrise Family Farms.
“He was a justice for the people,” said First Assistant District Attorney Stephen Dunshee. “He knew every defendant and he was just and fair.”
“The support I’ve had over the years has just been incredible,” Evans said upon receiving the honor, thanking his family for their encouragement. “Not once did I have an issue or complaint from my family when I had to go to court.”
Dunshee also awarded the Sherburne-Earlville Mock Trial Team. The team was recognized as the best in Chenango County for their performance in staged trials throughout the year and their final mock trial competition earlier this month.
“These young people do a wonderful job and they have all my respect,” said Chenango County Court Judge Howard Sullivan.

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