Stinson Receives Equal Justice Award from Legal Services of Eastern Missouri

09.11.2025

Stinson LLP has been recognized with the 2025 Melton M. Lewis Equal Justice Award from the Legal Services of Eastern Missouri (LSEM), sharing the recognition with the National Center for Law and Economic Justice (NCLEJ) for their joint efforts to expand access to essential benefits for low-income Missourians.

The award was presented during LSEM’s annual "For the Common Good" reception, which celebrates individuals and organizations whose work furthers the mission of providing high-quality civil legal assistance and ensuring equal access to justice in Eastern Missouri. The Melton M. Lewis Equal Justice Award is one of 10 annual honors given to those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to LSEM’s programs and made a measurable difference in the community.

Stinson and NCLEJ were recognized for their partnership with LSEM in achieving a landmark 2024 federal court victory on behalf of Missourians who had been illegally denied food assistance benefits. Stinson Partners Andrew Scavotto and Nicci Warr and attorney Zachary Buchheit, worked alongside NCLEJ attorneys to challenge and overturn these unlawful denials.

Scavotto accepted the award on behalf of Stinson at the "For the Common Good" reception, joining fellow honorees whose work has strengthened the pursuit of justice across the region.