Firm/team awards criteria
Excellence in Pro Bono - new for 2013
Whether your pro bono work is for clients in your local community or NGOs through a global partnership - from law shops to test cases, clinics to training - we are looking for examples of innovation and best practice. Whoever your client and whatever the vehicle, show us how your freely given legal expertise has promoted the public interest and developed your business and people.
Excellence in Exporting Legal Services - new for 2013
Has your firm championed the role of English law in the world of global commerce, or set high standards for responsible business in overseas markets? This is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate the contribution you're making around the world and showcase innovation in the provision of legal services internationally.
Legal Sector Alliance Award for Excellence in Environmental Responsibility
The ways in which firms may demonstrate their commitment to the environment can vary widely. From carbon management and energy efficiency through to sustainable procurement and innovative client partnerships, we're looking for evidence of best practice and new approaches. You'll have a proactive environmental strategy and be able to document its impact.
Excellence in Client Service
This award is designed to celebrate excellence in client care. If you've taken an innovative approach to service and can show how you've gone the extra mile for clients, this is your chance to get the recognition you deserve.
Excellence in Marketing & Communications
Firms are finding ever-more innovative ways to attract and acquire new clients and to convey key messages to employees and stakeholders internally. This award celebrates the very best in marketing and communications, with judges examining your objectives, messages, channels, audience and how effectively they achieved quantifiable results.
Excellence in Business Development & Innovation
The market place is constantly evolving and law firms are finding new and innovative ways to deliver legal services. Our judges are looking for examples of business development initiatives that push boundaries and create real added value.
Excellence in Learning & Development
We're looking for a clear link between your learning and development initiatives and business growth. Your entry will need to describe the development need, the drivers that shaped your approach and, of course, the effectiveness of your approach.
Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion
Open to signatories of the Law Society's Diversity and Inclusion Charter only
Open to firms that have embraced the Law Society's Diversity & Inclusion Charter, this award is designed to showcase the most successful examples of best practice in the promotion of diversity, inclusion and social mobility. We are looking for evidence of diversity and inclusion policies being put into action for employees or clients.
These might include innovative approaches to the recruitment, retention and promotion of a diverse and flexible workforce, or the creation and delivery of value-added services to meet the needs of diverse clients.
CQS Award for Excellence in Conveyancing Practice
Open to CQS-accredited practices only
This award is reserved for a firm which can demonstrate the strongest commitment to the values of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme. You must show how you have used it to enhance the reputation of your firm, raising standards of client care and service. How has the CQS brand helped you to improve your business and how have you embedded the processes required by its protocol?
Lexcel Award for Excellence in Practice Management
Open to Lexcel-accredited practices only
Achieving Lexcel requires commitment from your entire practice. Firms are continuing to show new and innovative ways of implementing Lexcel, and this award is your opportunity to be recognised for that commitment. Our judges are looking for the practice which has most effectively incorporated the Lexcel framework into its business. Show us how you are driving new strategies to enhance your performance and generate continuous improvement.
Individual awards criteria
Individual awards will be presented to exceptional solicitors who have made outstanding contributions through the insight, flair, imagination, hard work or dedication they have applied to their client work.
We're looking forward to recognising the very best the profession has to offer. So if you know of someone who's breaking new ground - or you feel you should be competing for an individual award yourself - don't delay in getting your nomination in.
Legal Business Woman of the Year
Open to all female practising solicitors.
Solicitor of the Year - In-house
Open to all solicitors working in-house.
Solicitor of the Year - Private Practice
Open to all solicitors working in private practice.
Solicitor Advocate of the Year
Open to all practising solicitors undertaking advocacy.
Junior Lawyer of the Year
Open to students and trainees, as well as solicitors with up to five years' active post-qualification experience, who are enrolled with the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
The Law Society Gazette Legal Personality of the Year
Entries to this category will be selected by the Law Society Gazette.
Read more and enter
All applicants must read the entry rules and procedures before submitting any nominations.