Winners of Legal Heroes 2023 announced

As the professional body for solicitors, we’re here to champion the value you bring to society and increase the impact you can have within your local community, nationally and internationally. Legal Heroes is just one of the ways we are doing this.

Earlier this year, we launched Legal Heroes, an opportunity to recognise the solicitors who have made the biggest difference to the lives of others.

We had hundreds of nominations, whittled down by our expert judging panel to a shortlist of 26.

On Thursday 7 September, we held a ceremony at 113 Chancery Lane in London where our president, Lubna Shuja, and other judges announced the winners.

"It is a privilege to recognise those who have brought distinction to the profession by making a lasting and tangible impact on the lives of their clients," Lubna said.

"Solicitors are a key part of our society, from supporting people through some of the most difficult times in their lives, to keeping our economy growing and ensuring that everyone has access to justice."

Our Legal Heroes are seven solicitors who have gone above and beyond.

They represent the best of our profession and what it means to embody the values of a solicitor.

Meet our winners

Shabina Begum

Shabina has worked as an independent domestic violence advocate handling high-risk cases and vulnerable clients, dedicating her life to effecting meaningful change for women and girls.

She was part of the pro bono team who campaigned for and drafted the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022, which raised the minimum age of marriage to 18.

Shabina takes initiative to make a positive difference, and her dedication to improving others’ lives is inspiring.

Jonathan Lafferty

Jonathan was nominated for his work for a charity set up to help those representing themselves in court.

Despite a demanding role in his firm, he went above and beyond in helping litigants in person in complicated cases – upholding the rule of law and ensuring the proper administration of justice.

Jonathan has repeatedly put himself on the front line to defend those who, without his help, would not be able to access proper legal support.

Emily McFadden

Emily was instrumental in the creation of a fund designed to provide financial support to those working in social welfare law, which has already helped nearly 70 candidates qualify.

She worked tirelessly to help establish the fund and support its recipients, and is an ambassador for the initiative, persuading commercial organisations to get on board.

Emily has taken it upon herself to improve access to the profession, which in turn will benefit a wealth of legal clients from disadvantaged communities.

Sabeena Pirooz

Sabeena has made a lasting and tangible difference to victims of forced marriage and honour-based abuse.

She has had a far-reaching impact in raising awareness, supporting victims and encouraging the sharing of best practice between local organisations to combat forced marriage collectively.

Sabeena’s work has shown that she has a deep personal commitment to making a difference to the lives of those in trouble or in need.

Qaisar Sheikh

Qaisar has been a consistent fighter for the most vulnerable in society, helping children and young people with a range of disabilities and special educational needs.

He has supported young people against the local authorities and schools failing them. Qaisar’s work has shaped education law and contributed to innovative projects.

Qaisar has made a tangible difference to the lives of others, prioritising his support for the people who need it most.

Clive Sutton

When a consultation threatened to close a key pillar of protection for solicitors and the public, Clive stepped up and undertook the considerable work needed to ensure continued trust in the profession.

His work contributed to the SRA’s decision to withdraw the proposal and secured vital protections for members of the public and retired solicitors.

Clive has demonstrated devotion to safeguarding solicitors and the public.

Martin Whitehorn

Martin is a champion for increased neurodiversity in the law. He has talked about his own experiences as a neurodivergent solicitor and is an example that can inspire and educate others.

Martin has advocated for increased disabled access in the law and his work in the field of neurodiversity and disability has had a far-reaching impact.

His commitment to equality and inclusion has changed perspectives and created a better future for aspiring solicitors.

What's next?

Lubna said: "I want to congratulate and thank our Legal Heroes and everyone who made the shortlist."

"Your work has made an immeasurable difference to the lives of others, and you all deserve to be celebrated."

Over the coming months, we'll share the Legal Heroes' stories in more depth and reveal the incredible impact of their work.

For press enquiries, email press@lawsociety.org.uk.