Maurice D. Geiger, who has served the cause of judicial reform for 40-plus years, was presented with the 2008 International Lawyer of the Year Award by the International Law Section at its May 22 meeting. The group honored Geiger for his work in Bangladesh, in Haiti (which is ongoing) and in various other countries around the world.

A NH Bar member since 1974, Geiger is a 1963 graduate of Georgetown University Law School; he came to New England as an adjudication specialist in 1972 and although his office was in Boston, he and his family moved to New Hampshire. They have lived in North Conway, where he subsequently set up his law practice, for 35 years.

Geiger loves New Hampshire, although he is seldom at home, since his work involves extensive travel. Dealing with antiquated—and usually corrupt—judicial systems in third-world countries can be difficult and disheartening. However, helping to bring about court reforms so that people in those countries can experience just some of the justice that Americans take so much for granted, has made his sojourns worthwhile.

A man of steadfast goals, Geiger will wade through ankle-deep mud (carrying his shoes) in Bangladesh, sit on the floor of a prison to talk with an inmate in Haiti, and sometimes go without food all day "just to be on the safe side," in order to work for justice.