Alumnus Justice Mark A. Friese Receives 2026 District of North Dakota CJA Distinguished Panel Attorney Award

Friese recognized for his dedication to indigent defendants, mentorship of fellow attorneys, and longtime service to the District’s Criminal Justice Act Panel.

Justice Mark A. Friese, an alumnus of UND School of Law, has received the 2026 Criminal Justice Act Distinguished Panel Attorney Award from the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota. The annual award recognizes an exemplary CJA Panel attorney whose service reflects a commitment to protecting the rights of the accused and providing quality representation to indigent defendants. Friese was recognized for his longtime service as CJA Panel Representative, work on the CJA Panel Committee, mentorship of fellow panel members, and willingness to defend difficult clients.