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A recent Widener Law alumnus will spend part of the Martin Luther King holiday being honored for his leadership and future promise.<br><br>The Barristers’ Association of Philadelphia will give its 2014 Outstanding Young Lawyer Award to 2010 cum laude graduate Charles M. Gibbs at its annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial breakfast. The event is being held Jan. 20 at the Loews Hotel on Market Street from 8 to 10 a.m.<br><br>The award is given to a young attorney who demonstrates competence in the practice of law and concern for his community. Through service, leadership or other activities, the recipient continually improves the perception of lawyers and exemplifies their dual role as passionate advocates and concerned citizens, according to the association.<br><br>“I am incredibly humbled and honored to be recognized by my peers,” Gibbs said. “Receiving it on Dr. King’s holiday reminds me to not only work diligently to be an effective advocate for my clients, but to also contribute to social justice causes as an attorney. Dr. King lent his voice to causes that were not popular in his day and every attorney is required to do the same.”<br><br>Gibbs, who served as president of the Black Law Students Association while at Widener, went on to say, “My service as a member of the profession began when I worked in the Pennsylvania Civil Clinic, and with BLSA. I'm proud to follow numerous Widener Law alums who contribute to the profession and community.”<br><br>Gibbs represents plaintiffs and defendants in state and federal courts, in matters involving election law, labor and employment matters, real estate disputes, complex commercial litigation and criminal defense. He also handles zoning and land use matters and local government affairs.He is a member of the St. Paul’s Baptist Church Board of Trustees and is chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Philadelphia Electrical and Technology Charter High School. <br><br>The Barristers’ Association of Philadelphia helps address the professional needs and development of black lawyers in the city of Philadelphia and surrounding areas through programs such as seminars, cultural events and publications. Those who wish to attend the breakfast should click here for more information.