Steven Cordero and Vanessa Garcia have been selected as the recipients of the 2016 Above & Beyond Pro Bono Award by the Sanctuary for Families, New York's leading advocate for survivors of domestic violence, sex trafficking and related forms of gender violence. They were chosen by Sanctuary's Pro Bono Council because they have consistently modeled the highest level of personal compassion and professional trial advocacy in their representation of a very fragile client facing a difficult legal and personal battle. The client herself said Cordero and Garcia showed unparalleled "kindness, compassion, and sense of humor" throughout the process, while always zealously representing the client's legal position.

Cordero and Garcia also are featured in the Sanctuary's Words of Empowerment blog for their inspiring work for survivors of domestic violence.

In a blog titled, "Akerman Attorneys Help Domestic Survivor Win Final Protective Order," Sanctuary's wrote, "Reflecting on his experience working with [his client] Ms. C, Steven explained that this case showed him that domestic violence is an issue that touches people of all walks of life, regardless of social-economic status.  He also appreciated that representing a domestic violence survivor in a case that would help protect her from harm gave him an opportunity to use his legal skills to fight for a good and worthy cause.

'It is very rewarding to have such a close client relationship, and to have someone like Ms. C put her trust in you,' Vanessa added.  In addition, 'the pro bono work has given me the opportunity, even as a junior associate, to really get involved in a case and see it through.'"

The lawyers will be honored during an award ceremony on Oct. 19 in New York.