Tom Dickson has been honored with the 2025 District of North Dakota Criminal Justice Act Distinguished Panel Attorney Award. This accolade is given annually by the District’s Criminal Justice Act (CJA) Panel Committee to recognize a CJA Panel attorney for their dedication and service to indigent defendants and the district.
The award emphasizes the importance of defending the rights of the accused, providing quality representation to those unable to afford it, and supporting fellow CJA Panel attorneys. The committee noted Mr. Dickson's long-term service on the panel, his readiness to represent challenging clients, and his consistent delivery of high-quality defense for indigent defendants. Additionally, his informal mentoring of other panel members was highlighted as a significant contribution.
Magistrate Judge Clare R. Hochhalter presented the award to Mr. Dickson at the Indigent Defense Conference in Bismarck on May 15, 2025.