Honorable Marvin H. Gillman
The Honorable Marvin H. Gillman Small Claims Court Award was established to honor the late Judge Gillman’s decades of dedicated service to the legal community and to honor outstanding individuals for their achievements in the County Court arena. Judge Gillman is fondly remembered for his fairness, humor, and deep respect for ensuring that every person’s voice was heard in Small Claims Court. The 2024-2025 award was presented by Dade Legal Aid/Put Something Back to Leonard “Lenny” Elias for his lifetime achievements. Like Judge Gillman, Elias is a champion of everyday consumers, a respected leader in the community, and a strong supporter of Dade Legal Aid and and Put Something Back's Small Claims Clinics. Elias's career reflects Judge Gillman's legacy of justice and service during his nearly three decades as Miami-Dade County’s Consumer Advocate and for many years as the Director of the Consumer Protection Division. Elias led hundreds of Small Claims Clinics, authored accessible legal self-help guides, and tirelessly defended the rights of countless consumers. The award was presented in October 2025.
Leonard “Lenny” Elias was awarded the Honorable Marvin H. Gillman Small Claims Award on October 10, 2025 for his lifetime achievements.