2026 Award Recipients
Friday, July 3, 2026
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Posted by: Amanda Rose Falk
Award of Merit Robert Albury; Judge Stamp Award Judge Michael Aloi | | | | | Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. Award for Judicial Excellence This award was established in 2023 to recognize the Honorable Frederick P. Stamp, Jr., Senior Judge for the United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia. It shall be presented to a judge who is active, retired or "senior status," whether state or federal court, trial or appellate, who has contributed significantly to the administration of justice in West Virginia. | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | Judge Michael J. Aloi’s career reflects an uncommon blend of legal excellence, public service, and genuine humanity—qualities that make him a deeply deserving 2026 recipient of the Judge Stamp Award. A Farmington native and distinguished graduate of both West Virginia Wesleyan College and the WVU College of Law, Judge Aloi built a remarkable foundation in private practice before becoming one of West Virginia’s most respected mediators, handling more than 2,500 cases and earning recognition as the state’s only Fellow of the American College of Civil Trial Mediators. His leadership has extended across the profession—serving as President of the West Virginia State Bar, chairing key statewide committees, and receiving numerous awards for merit, service, and professionalism. Since joining the federal bench as a United States Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of West Virginia, he has continued to shape the legal community through his teaching, his work with the Federal Judicial Center, and his commitment to programs that strengthen the justice system.
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| | | | | What truly sets Judge Aloi apart is the spirit with which he approaches every role. Whether establishing Marion County’s first Drug Court, creating a veterans’ diversion program, or mentoring students and young lawyers, he brings empathy, optimism, and a rare gift for helping people feel valued. Known for his ability to “make even the loser feel like a winner,” he embodies the belief that dignity and respect belong at the center of every legal process. His lifelong dedication to professional responsibility, well‑being in the legal profession, and the power of listening mirrors the very qualities that defined Judge Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. Judge Aloi’s unwavering kindness, integrity, and love for the law make him not only an exemplary judge, but a model of the very best in our profession—and a profoundly fitting honoree for this award. | | | | |
| | | | | | | 2026 Award of Merit Recipient The recipient of the Award of Merit embodies a continuing commitment to leadership, service, and the work and purpose of the West Virginia Bar Association, and must have demonstrated a lifetime of achievement or exceptional service to the legal community or the public. | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | With more than 35 years of combined experience in the legal profession and behavioral healthcare, Robert Albury, Jr., has served as a practicing attorney, licensed healthcare professional, and leader of multiple lawyer‑assistance initiatives, including the Tennessee Supreme Court’s Lawyer Assistance Program and Cumberland Heights’ Professionals and Extended Care programs. He holds a BS in Finance from Florida State University and a JD from the University of Miami School of Law.
Widely admired for his humility, warmth, and unwavering commitment to lawyer well‑being, Robert is known for promoting JLAP as a resource for the entire legal community—not only those in crisis. His leadership at WVJLAP reflects true public service, strengthening professionalism, supporting the administration of justice, and improving the welfare of attorneys across the state. Colleagues consistently describe him as engaging, enthusiastic, and dedicated, qualities that make him exceptionally deserving of this honor. |
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