On May 29, 2025, Dade Legal Aid will present the inaugural Maurice Jay Kutner Family Law Excellence Award to Jacqueline M. Valdespino, Esq., at the 33rd annual Nuts & Bolts of Family Law Seminar.
“Kutner,” as he was affectionately known, dedicated his career to professionalism, mentorship, and transparency in family law. He was a driving force behind the success of this annual seminar that has recruited and trained hundreds of pro bono family attorneys over the years. Admitted to the Florida Bar in 1965, Kutner served in the Army JAG Corps and worked as a Public Defender before entering private practice. He served as Chair of both the Florida Bar and ABA Family Sections, and was a Founder of the First Family Law Inn of Court, Miami Chapter.
This year’s Nuts & Bolts of Family Law Seminar is dedicated to his memory, and, Jacqueline M. Valdespino, Esq., will be the recipient of the inaugural Kutner Family Law Excellence Award. Like Kutner, Valdespino is a frequent speaker and mentor for staff and pro bono family attorneys, following in Mr. Kutner’s footsteps and continuing his legacy. Kutner, who passed in October 2020, will always be a special part of this program.
