Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SATURDAY, June 18, 1994 TAG: 9407140002
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV2 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE:
DATELINE: RICHMOND LENGTH: Medium
Sawyers, originally from Marion, has been in private practice since 1974. From 1978 to 1986, he served as an instructor of criminal, real estate and business law at New River Community College.
In 1991, he was nominated and elected as substitute judge for the 27th Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court and General District Court, and continues to serve in that position.
His community service includes his current standing as chairman of the Salvation Army board of directors and his service as a past member of the boards of directors for the Easter Seals Society and the Legal Aid Society.
He is noted for his free initial consultations with clients and his assistance to the Legal Aid Society in representing cases pro bono.
Paralyzed from polio since age 4, Sawyers' accomplishments, while impressive on their own, amaze his clients, colleagues and friends.
Although paralyzed except for limited use of his right hand and arm, he is able to drive in a speciallyequipped van and perform many other activities with the assistance of his service dog, a golden retriever named Benny.
Many who know him say that it is easy to forget Sawyers' physical limitations, because he does not let them interfere with any aspect of his life.
The Tradition of Excellence Award recognizes lawyers who have devoted significant time and effort to activities which assist the community and enhance the standing of lawyers, particularly general practitioners, in the eyes of the public. The recipient reflects the tradition of excellence of Virginia lawyers.
by CNB