Distinguished Legal Service Award

The Distinguished Legal Service Award, formerly the Distinguished Judicial Service Award, is presented, annually, at Red Mass. The award is given to an individual who exemplifies the mission of Gonzaga University School of Law and is well connected to the Gonzaga Law community. The award honors those who show longevity of service, an active role in the judicial community and/or strong public service commitment.

Meet the 2024 Recipient: Janice Brown, (’83 J.D.)

Janice Brown is Chair of Meyers Nave’s state-wide Labor and Employment Practice, and Workplace Investigations Practice. She has more than 35 years of trial, arbitration and appellate experience in state and federal courts. Janice’s distinguished career began in the U.S. Justice Department where she quickly demonstrated outstanding legal expertise that earned her membership in the Honors Program and the “Outstanding Trial Attorney” and “Trial Lawyer of the Year” awards in under three years.

Janice is recognized as a pioneer in the legal profession as the founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Brown Law Group, a woman- and minority-owned employment and business litigation firm in San Diego that served local corporations and Fortune 50 companies headquartered throughout the U.S. for over 20 years. She is a trusted advisor to clients, an inspirational mentor to colleagues and an influential leader in advancing diversity throughout the legal profession. For example, San Diego SuperLawyers magazine published an article about Janice titled “Chief Executive Optimist: Janice Brown took an uncommon approach to the law and built an uncommon firm.” Janice also speaks and consults on matters related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Janice has been actively engaged with Gonzaga Law School, serving on the Law School Board of Advisors from 2013 to 2017. She has spoken to law students about various topics, including women in leadership, managing a law firm, and mentorship for law students. In recognition of her dedication and commitment to Gonzaga Law School, she was honored with the Distinguished Alumni Merit Award in 2010.

Janice is well known for her legal expertise as well as her commitment to local community service. She has been featured on the local San Diego affiliates of CBS, Fox, ABC and NBC for her insights on topics such as sexual harassment and wrongful termination. Janice also is a frequent speaker on economic development and personal and business success.