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.

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.

Chief Judge Frank W. Volk was born in Morgantown, West Virginia.  He assumed his current position as a judge for the United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia on October 17, 2019, following his April 2, 2019, nomination by President Donald J. Trump and his October 16, 2019, unanimous confirmation by the United States Senate. 

Immediately preceding his Article III appointment, he served as Chief Judge of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of West Virginia beginning October 9, 2015. He is a 1992 graduate of the WVU College of Law where he served as editor-in-chief of the West Virginia Law Review and attained Order of the Coif.

Over his forty-one years with Jackson Kelly PLLC, Tom has litigated and tried serious injury, wrongful death, and commercial cases.  He acts as regional and national counsel for firm clients and has an active appellate practice.  He is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers and a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates.  Tom is active in bar and defense groups and served as President of both the Association of Defense Trial Attorneys and the Defense Trial Counsel of West Virginia.  He is a frequent author and speaker on a wide variety of litigation related topics and leadership.  Tom and his wife, Julia (also a lawyer) live in Charleston, West Virginia and have three children (also lawyers).