Last month, Jacksonville trial attorney and past president of The Florida Bar Howard Coker (left) received the Perry Nichols Award, which is given by the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers and recognizes lifetime achievement in the legal profession. Established in 1977 as a permanent tribute to Perry Nichols, founder and first president of the AFTL, the award recognizes individuals who have provided extended, distinguished service to the cause of justice in Florida. Coker was joined by Jacksonville attorney W.C. Gentry and Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers President Edward Zebersky of Hollywood, Fla.