On January 31, Najeri Evans, Kara Hart, and Donny Williams, students at the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law (UDC Law), were selected as the 2024 David C. Niblack Scholars. These scholars now join an esteemed group of defenders who have been recognized for their exceptional contributions.
The Endowed Niblack Scholarship Fund was established in memory of David “Dave” C. Niblack, a beloved professor of Trial Advocacy at UDC Law and former dean of Clinical Programs at UDC Law’s predecessor, Antioch School of Law, after his passing in November 2000. The fund aims to recognize annually one or more third- or fourth-year law students with financial need and a demonstrated commitment to pursuing a career as a criminal defense lawyer. Since 2004, fifty-nine Niblack Scholars have been awarded a total of $178,500 in scholarship funds, contributing to Dave’s legacy in the legal community.
David Niblack, remembered as an outstanding criminal defense lawyer, was a Washington, D.C. native who attended St. John’s College High School, Georgetown University, and Georgetown Law. After serving in the army during the Korean War, where he met his wife Fran, Dave worked as a reporter for the Congressional Quarterly before establishing his law firm, Niblack & Whaley.
Many in the legal community, including Professor Shelley Broderick, had the privilege of knowing Dave personally. Professor Broderick first encountered Dave during the Criminal Defense Clinic at Georgetown Law School, where Dave’s mentorship left a lasting impact. “Dave’s extensive knowledge of the criminal defense world, from critical players to courtroom dynamics, greatly influenced my legal career” shared Professor Broderick.
Known for his fearlessness in challenging judges and advocating for defendants, Dave was considered one of the best criminal defense lawyers in the courthouse. He later served as the chief public defender for the state of Wisconsin, fighting for adequate funding for the agency. “Lawyers flocked to see his cross-examinations and closing arguments in high profile cases, but they also followed his regular duels with certain judges. Dave was absolutely fearless…” said Professor Broderick.
After returning to his hometown, Dave became the dean of Clinical Programs at the Antioch School of Law.
“[Professor Niblack] was a gifted teacher and storyteller during his fifteen years at the School of Law. His Trial Advocacy course consistently received outstanding evaluations from students who often considered litigation practice for the first time after taking the course. Even the most fearful student took heart after hearing Professor Niblack tell of his first trial, during which the judge dolefully asked him if he really thought his cross examination was helping his client in any way. As hundreds of students could attest, Professor Niblack was always available after class, to talk about trial tactics, judicial demeanor, global warming, his adventures as an emergency medical technician, or any other topic, especially over a cold beer at a spot near the courthouse called the District Chop House. Professor Niblack’s tutorials never ended with graduation. Many, many alumni spent profitable time trailing after him, as I had done, watching the master at his craft in the courtroom” shared Professor Broderick.
Professor Broderick expressed gratitude to Kate Niblack Raby, Dave’s daughter, Dave Colapinto’88, Dave’s former student, Colin Dunham, Dave’s partner and co-teacher, and Jim Rebholz, Dave’s second-in-command at the Wisconsin Public Defender System, for serving on the Niblack Scholarship Selection Committee. She added “Their contributions, both in time and resources, play a vital role in preserving Dave’s memory and supporting the next generation of criminal defense advocates.”