Hal Israel Community Service Award

This award, selected by the Young Lawyers Division, recognizes a young lawyer who gives generously of his or her time and knowledge to the community through bar-sponsored programs and initiatives. The award is named in honor of Herman Allen "Hal" Israel whose great mind and generous spirit inspired all who knew him. This award is not given annually; it is only given to recognize exceptional service.

2013 Recipient

ERIN RONSTADT earned her Juris Doctorate degree from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and certificate in Public Administration from Arizona State University, graduating cum laude. Erin served in several leadership capacities while in law school, including Student Bar Association President and Pro Bono Executive Board member. Demonstrating her commitment to public service, she volunteered over 350 pro bono hours during law school while also raising her younger brother and sister. Erin graduated with Highest Pro Bono Distinction and was awarded a Dean’s Award for Outstanding Graduate.

Since graduating, Erin volunteered extensively for the Arizona Justice Project, and her work contributed to overturning two wrongful convictions. She currently volunteers by offering legal assistance to homeless Arizona families. In February 2012, Erin founded Ronstadt Law, P.L.L.C. Her law practice focuses on ERISA litigation; specifically, she represents disabled clients in securing employment and disability benefits under their group benefit policies.

Erin lives in Phoenix with her husband and three dogs.  

Previous Recipients

The award has been presented to: