The State Bar of Nevada announced on May 7 that Richard Dreitzer has been named the recipient of this year’s Presidential Award, honoring his career in law and service to the profession.
The award is presented posthumously and recognizes Dreitzer’s dedication to principled service, consensus building, and a commitment to the legal field. The State Bar said he was selected for his contributions across various roles in legal practice and leadership within the organization.
Dreitzer worked as a solo practitioner, at small firms, served as Deputy Attorney General, and ultimately became managing partner of Fennemore’s Las Vegas office. He specialized in commercial litigation and labor and employment law. His broad experience informed his work with the State Bar Board of Governors, which he joined in 2013. During more than ten years on the board, Dreitzer led efforts such as merging the Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Board back into the State Bar—an initiative that brought cost savings and administrative efficiencies for members—and supported attorney wellness programs.
He was sworn in as president of the bar in June 2024. According to the announcement, this role was seen as “the natural culmination of a career built on the belief that leadership means stewardship, not self-advancement.” His leadership mantra was quoted as: “May we all reach our true north.”
Honorees for this year’s Membership Awards will be recognized at the upcoming 2026 Bar Conference scheduled for June 17–19 in Hawaii. The State Bar invites all licensees to join them in honoring Dreitzer’s memory along with other recipients. These awards are intended to recognize individuals and organizations for their service to both the bar association and legal profession.
