Retired Circuit Court Judge William Maness (left) receives the Justice Raymond Ehrlich Award from James Cobb of Peek Cobb Edwards & Ashton, who was presented the inaugural award last year. The award is presented on behalf of the practicing lawyer and jurist who sat on the 4th Judicial Circuit bench for more than 20 years. In 1981, Ehrlich went to the State Supreme Court, where he also served as Chief Justice. The award honors those in the legal profession who are distinguished by their “steadfast obedience to ethics, professionalism, preparation, respect to all participants in the legal process, aggressive advocacy, mentorship, scholarship and a drive to do what is right.” Maness, who is a former state legislator and past attorney for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, maintains a private practice downtown.