John R. “Buddy” Wester Receives The Advocate’s Award

By Rick Conner

The Litigation Section is thrilled to be able to recognize John R. “Buddy” Wester as the 13th recipient of The Advocate’s Award. Wester, who served as president of the North Carolina Bar Association in 2009-2010, was recognized at the annual meeting of the Litigation Section on May 18, 2021, conducted via Zoom. You can view a recording of the award presentation here (Passcode 2L02D+ws).

Russell Rawlings wrote a wonderful article about Wester for North Carolina Lawyer, and that story can be found here.

The Advocate’s Award is presented by the Litigation Section as merited to recognize members who are the “superstars” of our Bar, and recognizes litigators who 1) have the highest ethical standards; 2) have shown great skill and ability as litigators/trial lawyers and commitment to the very best work product; 3) demonstrate a true commitment of service to clients; 4) demonstrate a respect for and love of the law; 5) are held in the highest regard by both bench and bar; 6 ) are dedicated to the community and the bar with a track record of pro bono or volunteer service; and 7) serve as an example of how to effectively balance both outstanding professional performance and other life endeavors.

Upon hearing the news that he would receive The Advocate’s Award, Buddy responded with what he characterized as “a series of spontaneous exclamations – on their way to excited utterances.” During his remarks on May 18, he thanked his law firm Robinson Bradshaw, where he has practiced his entire career. He also thanked his family, many of whom were able to attend the presentation of the award.

“I am most grateful to be invited today into a circle of lawyers who are heroes of mine,” Wester added.

Past recipients of The Advocate’s Award include: Catharine Arrowood (2020), Ted Fillette (2018), Janet Ward Black (2017), Bill Womble Jr. (2016), James E. Ferguson II (2015), A. Ward McKeithen (2013), Charlie Blanchard (2012), Alan W. Duncan (2011), James T. Williams Jr. (2010), Grady Barnhill (2009), Don Cowan Jr. (2007) and Charles Becton (2006).