Winner
Roger Jairaj Sahota - BSB Solicitors
The first solicitor advocate to appear as defence counsel in a war crimes trial before a UN international tribunal, Roger Sahota was commended by international judges and the prosecution for his closing submissions earlier this year and has received praise for his sensitive cross-examination of prosecution witnesses.
Highly Commended
Flora Page - Old Bailey Solicitors
Flora has had outstanding results as an advocate in long trials involving conspiracy, money laundering and violence. Meanwhile she has established Old Bailey Solicitors, a new firm built around quality solicitor-advocacy, and co-designed a structured advocacy training programme for solicitors through the Solicitors Association of Higher Court Advocates.
Shortlisted
Niall Blackie - FBC Manby Bowdler LLP
In addition to being an excellent solicitor-advocate, Niall is a Legal Associate of the Royal Town Planning Institute and a member of the Law Society's specialist Planning Panel. He leads one of the most successful and reputable planning departments in the West Midlands and Shropshire. Niall sees the use of 'higher rights' as a way to ensure that clients have the benefit of their solicitor's special knowledge of their case to progress their case further.