Katy E. Ward, an attorney in the Environmental Law Section of Mintz, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C., has been selected as an honoree for the “Excellence in Pro Bono” award by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly and the Massachusetts Bar Association as part of their annual “Excellence in the Law,” which honors the “very best in the legal profession.”

Ms. Ward is one of 5 attorneys from across Massachusetts selected to receive the “Excellence in Pro Bono” award. According to Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly, attorneys chosen for this honor must have “used their expertise and resources to take on cases for the less fortunate that are in need of legal services.” Ms. Ward will be recognized at the “Excellence in the Law” event on May 1, 2014.

 “We congratulate Katy on this well-deserved recognition,” said Susan M. Finegan, Member of Mintz Litigation Section and the firm’s Pro Bono Partner. “Through Katy’s commitment to pro bono work, she has distinguished herself as an advocate for the underserved and underrepresented in our community. We are thrilled that Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly has selected her for this honor.”

Ms. Ward’s practice includes representing clients in environmental litigation in state and federal court; advising clients compliance with state and federal environmental laws and regulations; and advising potential purchasers and lessees on environmental issues in real estate transactions.

Ms. Ward is also very active in pro bono work and the community. She is a co-director of the Mintz Housing Court Program and has advised non-profit organizations on a range of issues, including formation, federal and state tax-exempt status and governing documents. She also participates in Mintz Domestic Violence Program, arguing an appeal of a denial of a restraining order before the Massachusetts Appeals Court and the single justice session of the Supreme Judicial Court.  Katy has helped organize a variety of non-profit training programs, including a Know Your Rights! Program, which educates non-profits focused on helping low-income women and their families.

Katy is also the co-chair of the BBA’s Real Estate Public Service Committee, a member of Massachusetts Bar Association’s Individual Rights & Responsibilities Section, a co-chair of the Women’s Bar Association’s (WBA’s) Legislative Policy Committee and a member of the WBA’s Awards and Endorsements Committee.