Peter Prieto: A champion of justice celebrated with Judge Learned Hand Award

Miami Law alumnus Peter Prieto is honored by the American Jewish Committee with the prestigious award for his exceptional contributions to the legal field and the South Florida community.
Peter Prieto: A champion of justice celebrated with Judge Learned Hand Award

From left: Harley Tropin, Aaron Podhurst, Peter Prieto, Brian Bilzin, AJC Miami and Broward president Susan Greene Pallot, and director Brian Siegal. Photo by Gort Productions.

 

In a night dedicated to recognizing excellence in the legal profession and community service, the American Jewish Committee - Miami and Broward Chapter presented esteemed trial lawyer Peter Prieto, J.D. '85, with the 2025 Judge Learned Hand Award. The distinguished accolade, known for honoring individuals dedicated to humanitarian principles and democratic values, reflects Prieto's unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the South Florida community.

The AJC's annual Judge Learned Hand Award Dinner was a gathering marked by camaraderie and recognition of notable legal minds. Co-chaired by Harley Tropin, J.D. '77, Aaron Podhurst, Manny Kadre, and Brian Bilzin, the event drew members of the legal and business communities who came together to honor the achievements of Prieto, a partner at Podhurst Orseck.

"Peter Prieto's honor is an inspiring reminder of the profound impact that legal professionals can have on society, shining a light on the collective commitment to uphold the values that foster a just and equitable world," said Patricia S. Abril, interim dean of the law school.

Prieto's legal career, spanning over three decades, showcases an impressive trajectory that began as a federal prosecutor at the U.S. Attorney's Office in Miami. His experience in varied legal environments, including a national law firm and his current role at Podhurst Orseck, has equipped him with unique insights that enhance his advocacy for plaintiffs in complex commercial litigation and class actions. Today, he leads one of the nation's foremost practices in class action and commercial litigation, known for securing landmark settlements across several high-profile cases.

Prieto is one of the founders of the annual Miami Law Class Action & Complex Litigation Forum, which gathers the leading judges, practitioners, and scholars from around the country to discuss cutting-edge topics on class actions, multi-district litigation, and mass tort litigation, now in its ninth year.

"Peter Prieto's outstanding leadership and contributions over the years both to the practice of law and to the community speak for themselves," said Brian Siegal, director of AJC's Miami and Broward Regional Office. "His dedication to the principles of democracy, coupled with his commitment to standing up for equality and justice, makes him the ideal recipient for this award."

Prieto's influence extends beyond the courtroom. He serves on the Dean's Advisory Board at the University of Miami School of Law and the Alumni Advisory Board of the University of Miami Law Review. Peter and his wife, Caren, established an endowed scholarship in 2020 to benefit first-generation law school students with high academic merit, who are members of one of the school's law reviews or the Moot Court Board.

His commitment to public service is further evidenced by his prior positions on the board of trustees of St. Thomas University and Florida's Commission on Ethics, to which two governors appointed him.

His dedication to justice and legal excellence has earned him membership in the American College of Trial Lawyers and the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. These accolades illustrate his reputation as a formidable advocate and respected leader within the legal community.

The AJC, founded in 1906, is a notable organization dedicated to advocating for the Jewish people and advancing human rights worldwide. The Judge Learned Hand Award, established in 1964, is a tribute to individuals who embody the principles of justice and equality.

As he accepted the award, Prieto expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the importance of always doing what is right and building bridges among all peoples, no matter their religion or race.

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