The SMBA Judicial Excellence Award recognizes judges who exemplify the highest legal and ethical standards to which all in the legal profession should strive, and are actively involved in service to both the legal and non-legal community. The minimum qualifications for the award are as follows:

• That the judge be a member in good standing of the SMBA
• That the nominee exhibits high standards on the bench for 5 years or more.
• That the judge be actively involved in service to both the legal and non-legal community.
• That the nominee is an active and supportive member of the SMBA.