Champion of Civil Legal Assistance Honoree Profile – Judge David Avery

Each year, the Indiana Bar Foundation hosts its Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon, honoring individuals and organizations whose service uplifts civic education and improves civil legal assistance across Indiana.

The Civil Legal Assistance Champion Award recognizes an individual who has significantly inspired and led change to improve civil legal assistance for all Hoosiers. This year’s award honoree is Hon. David Avery, who is recognized for his extraordinary service and longstanding commitment to pro bono legal work, access to justice, and support for underserved communities in Indiana.

The Foundation sat down with Judge Avery to learn more about what this award means and how his career has led him to this point.

Q: Can you share a bit about your background and what brought you to this point in your career?

Judge David Avery began his legal career in 1976 and practiced law in Fort Wayne for over two decades. In 2000, he was appointed to the Allen Superior Court Civil Division, serving until his retirement in December 2024.

“Being a judge was a great honor. I followed in the footsteps of Judge Paul Mathias, who moved up to the Court of Appeals,” Judge Avery shared. “I’ve had a long and fulfilling journey, both as an attorney and a judge.”

Q: What does receiving this award mean to you?

“I’m very grateful to receive this honor,” Judge Avery said. “At the same time, I can’t help but feel there are many others who are more deserving. Still, I sincerely thank the Indiana Bar Foundation for this recognition.”

Q: Who or what has inspired you throughout your journey?

Judge Avery credits his early inspiration to his family, especially his parents and grandmother, who instilled in him the value of caring for others.

“As a lawyer and judge, I was also influenced by the culture of the Allen County Bar Association. Pro bono service is ingrained in our community—whether it’s through the volunteer lawyer program or simply taking on cases without expecting compensation.”

Q: Are there any projects or goals you’re excited about in your retirement?

Though recently retired, Judge Avery is still active in Allen County. He plans to continue his involvement with the Volunteer Lawyer Program and the Allen County Bar Association’s telephone legal advice line.

“I also really enjoyed working on conditional licenses since 2015—helping people regain driving privileges and seeing the positive impact that had on their lives. I’d like to continue contributing in that area as well,” he noted.

Q: What advice would you give to someone hoping to make an impact similar to yours?

Judge Avery’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: give back. “I’ve been blessed with opportunities not everyone has, so I believe in a form of tithing—giving back your time, talent, or treasure. Whatever your profession, find a way to help others who don’t have the same access or resources,” expressed Judge Avery.

Q: Is there a motto or quote that has guided your work?

Judge Avery draws from a message of universal compassion: “‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ When asked who your neighbor is, the answer is anyone, especially those in need. I try to show grace and assistance without judgment, especially to those who may be going through hard times.”

Q: Any final thoughts you’d like to share with those attending the Awards Luncheon?

“I’m probably preaching to the choir when I say this, but thank you to everyone here today who supports pro bono efforts in Indiana. The work we all do—giving time, energy, and resources—sets a standard and creates a culture of service that truly makes a difference.”

Join us in celebrating Judge David Avery and his incredible contributions to Indiana’s legal community at the Indiana Bar Foundation’s Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon on Friday, June 20, at the Westin in downtown Indianapolis. Learn more and RSVP, click here: https://www.classy.org/event/2025-annual-meeting-and-awards-luncheon/e671105