SLS LEGAL AWARDS 2025

SLS LEGAL AWARDS 2025

Celebrating Excellence:

Nominations Now Open for SLS Legal Awards 2025

The Surrey Law Society is delighted to announce that nominations are now open for the prestigious SLS Legal Awards 2025. This highly anticipated annual event serves as a platform to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements within Surrey’s legal community, showcasing the talent, dedication, and innovation that define the profession across the county.

With a fantastic line-up of 14 categories, this year’s awards reflect the diverse contributions of Surrey Law Society members. Among the most exciting developments for 2025 is the introduction of three new categories. The Business Services Team of the Year award acknowledges the invaluable contributions of teams within law firms— such as business development, marketing, HR/talent, finance, IT, and operations—who play a strategic role in supporting legal teams and driving firm success. The Employment Law Team of the Year award aligns with our new Employment Law Programme, recognising teams that have demonstrated excellence in delivering employment law services. Finally, the Leader of the Year award will honour Managing and Senior Partners who have exhibited transformative leadership within their firm and the wider legal profession.

We are also thrilled to continue offering many of our established categories, including Law Firm of the Year, Junior Lawyer of the Year, Employer of the Year, and the Lifetime Achievement Award. A full list of categories and criteria can be found below.

With the deadline for submissions set for Friday 16 May 2025, we encourage members to participate by nominating deserving individuals and teams whose work exemplifies excellence in the legal sector. Nomination forms and further details are available on the Surrey Law Society’s website at https://awards.surreylawsociety.org.uk.

Save the date now for the highlight of Surrey’s legal calendar—the SLS Legal Awards 2025 Ceremony, which will take place on Thursday, 16 October 2025, at G Live in Guildford. Join us as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Surrey Law Society membership and honour those who continue to shape and advance the legal profession.

2025 CATEGORIES AND CRITERIA

  1. Law Firm of the Year 

(20 Fee Earners and Over) 

Why does your firm stand out? This award should demonstrate your winning formula and highlight significant progress in the last 12 months. Judges seek evidence of excellence, including:

• Reputation and Public Profile: Showcase notable achievements, cases, and industry impact.

• Holistic Legal Services Approach: Outline a comprehensive strategy covering client relations, innovation, and community engagement.

• Exemplary Client Care: Provide testimonials and strategies for client satisfaction.

• Diversity and Inclusion Commitment: Showcase initiatives and achievements promoting diversity and inclusion.

• Effective Management and Staff Performance: Demonstrate management's role in achieving outstanding results and provide evidence of staff achievements.

• Strong Staff Engagement and Training: Outline staff engagement and innovative training programmes.

• Exemplary Teamwork: Provide examples of successful collaboration.

• Engaging CSR Programmes: Showcase projects with a positive impact on the community and environment.

• Culture of Innovation: Highlight how your firm embraces technology and innovation.

• Deep Expertise in Practice Areas: Showcase specialised knowledge and achievements.

Nominee firms should demonstrate a clear vision for their business. Evidence may include testimonials, accreditations, awards, and shared results. 

This category is open to firms who are within the membership categories 5 and 6 only.  

2. Law Firm of the Year 

(Under 20 Fee Earners) 

Why does your smaller firm stand out? This award showcases your winning formula and highlights significant progress in the last 12 months. Judges seek evidence of excellence, including:

• Distinctive Reputation and Profile: Showcase achievements, cases, and impact on a smaller scale.

• Comprehensive Legal Services Approach: Outline a strategy covering client relations, innovation, and community engagement.

• Exceptional Client Care: Provide testimonials and strategies demonstrating personalised client satisfaction.

• Diversity and Inclusion Commitment: Showcase initiatives and achievements promoting diversity and inclusion.

• Effective Management and Staff Performance: Demonstrate management's role in achieving outstanding results for your team; provide evidence of staff achievements and impact.

• Engaged Staff and Training: Outline staff engagement and any unique training programmes.

• Collaborative Teamwork: Provide examples of successful collaboration

• Impactful CSR Programmes: Showcase community and environmental initiatives with a meaningful impact considering your firm's size.

• Innovation: Highlight how your firm innovates within the market.

• Expertise in Niche Practice Areas: Showcase specialised knowledge and achievements, emphasising the uniqueness of your firm.

Nominee firms should demonstrate a clear vision for their smaller business. Evidence may include testimonials, accreditations, awards, and shared results. 

This category is open to firms who are within the membership categories 1-4 only, and nominations can only be accepted from firms with no more than 20 fee earners across all offices nationwide.   

 3. Lawyer of the Year

This prestigious award recognises a lawyer who excels in professional practice and community impact. Judges seek candidates who demonstrate qualities such as:

• Client-Centric Excellence: Genuine client interest and evidence of going the extra mile.

• Colleague Inspiration: Positive impact on colleagues with support and mentorship.

• Community Commitment: Active engagement in CSR and community improvement.

• Exceptional Performance: Goes "above and beyond" in client care and satisfaction.

• Continuous Growth: Demonstrates commitment to personal and professional development.

• Team Leadership: Strong leadership and teamwork skills for exceptional results.

• Empathy and Respect: Displays empathy and professional respect in all interactions.

• Effective Management: Evidence of strategic decision-making and organisational impact.

Entrants are assessed holistically for excellence in client care, CSR, development, teamwork, leadership, empathy, and respect.

4. Business Services Team of the Year

This category recognises outstanding contributions from business services teams within law firms, including business development, marketing, HR/talent, finance, IT, and operational teams. Judges will be looking for:

• Exceptional Business Support: Demonstration of a strategic and effective role in supporting legal teams and driving the firm’s success.

• Successful Initiatives or Projects: Evidence of a project, campaign, or initiative that has significantly benefited the firm.

• Innovation and Process Improvement: Implementation of new strategies, technologies, or practices that have enhanced efficiency or client service.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Effective collaboration within the team and across different areas of the firm.

• Impact on Client and Firm Growth: Contribution to business growth, client engagement, talent retention, or firm reputation.

• Commitment to Culture and Wellbeing: Promotion of a positive workplace culture, wellbeing, and inclusion.

Submissions should highlight measurable outcomes, testimonials, or case studies showcasing the team’s success.

5. Client Experience Award

Client Experience holds significant importance in the legal profession, serving as a crucial differentiator in winning and retaining both private and commercial clients. This award recognises outstanding achievements in delivering a client-centric approach, creating positive and memorable experiences, and ensuring client satisfaction that goes beyond.

Nominees should exemplify excellence in criteria such as the following:

• Client-Centric Approach: Tailored strategies to address individual client needs.

• Communication and Transparency: Clear and open communication channels and transparent fee structures.

• Accessibility and Responsiveness: Timely and accessible legal professionals.

• Innovative Technology and Processes: Use of technology for enhanced client experience.

• Continuous Improvement and Feedback: Responsive to client feedback for continuous improvement.

• Ethical and Professional Conduct: Adherence to high ethical standards and professionalism.

• Client Retention and Referrals: High client retention and positive referrals.

• Community Engagement and Social Responsibility: Involvement in community initiatives and/or pro bono work.

• Innovative Client Events and Services: Creative events or services enhancing client experience.

Applicants are encouraged to provide evidence showcasing their commitment to these criteria, and the judging panel will assess nominations based on their exceptional contributions to delivering a superior client experience.

Member firms who are participating in Options B, C or D of the Championing Client Experience Excellence initiative with insight6, will receive an automatic nomination in this category. 

6. Employer of the Year 

This important award offers an exceptional opportunity for public recognition within the region as a distinguished employer of choice, acknowledged for fostering an environment where individuals aspire to work. The judging panel will be evaluating evidence demonstrating your commitment to cultivating an outstanding workplace and ensuring high levels of employee engagement, they expect to see clear policies, commitments and best practice in:

• Positive Culture: Showcase initiatives that contribute to a supportive and positive workplace culture.

• Leadership Excellence: Demonstrate strong leadership marked by trust, empowerment, and engagement at all levels.

• Employee Growth and Recognition: Highlight practices that challenge employees, fostering growth, and emphasise recognition and rewards.

• Fair Treatment: Illustrate employee sentiments regarding fairness and equitable treatment.

• Comprehensive Benefits: Showcase a package of employee benefits promoting overall wellbeing.

• Training and Development: Outline strategies for employee training and development.

• Wellbeing Focus: Highlight policies emphasising the organisation's commitment to employee wellbeing.

Applicants should present a concise narrative supported by data and testimonials, emphasising sustained commitment, innovation, and results.

7. Employment Law Team of the Year 

The Employment Law Team of the Year Award celebrates a team that has excelled in providing outstanding employment law services. The judging panel will evaluate:

• Excellence in Employment Law Practice: Evidence of delivering high-quality legal advice and advocacy in employment law matters.

• Success in Complex Cases: Demonstration of expertise in handling complex or high-profile cases, including tribunal successes and client impact.

• Innovation in Service Delivery: Implementation of innovative strategies, technology, or approaches to employment law challenges.

• Collaboration and Client Focus: Effective teamwork within the firm and strong engagement with clients or external partners.

• Thought Leadership and Influence: Contributions to employment law through publications, speaking engagements, or policy work.

Nominations will be accepted from a team of solicitors or a group of legal professionals acting within the practice of employment law.     

Applications should include case studies, testimonials, or data showcasing the team’s achievements and influence.

8. Family Law Team of the Year  

The Family Law Team of the Year Award recognises a team that has significantly contributed to the field of family law through their exceptional practice. The winning team must showcase excellence in family law services, and the judging panel will evaluate key areas including the following:

• Outstanding Legal Services: Demonstrate an exceptional quality of legal services for clients, supported by testimonials and evidence of going above and beyond.

• Teamwork Excellence: Highlight excellent teamwork within the family law team and across the firm. Identify the most crucial factor contributing to the team's success.

• Collaborative Approach: Showcase a collaborative approach with external lawyers and/or other professionals in the field.

• Innovation Commitment: Demonstrate a commitment to innovation in the practice of family law, either within the firm or contributing to sector-wide advancements.

• Success in Complex Cases: Provide evidence of success in handling a particularly complex case with significant outcomes. Explain the major impact on both the team and the client.

Nominations will be accepted from a team of solicitors or a group of legal professionals acting within the practice of family law.   

Applicants are encouraged to present a compelling narrative, including specific case examples, testimonials, and collaborative efforts that highlight their team's outstanding contributions to the field of family law.

 9. Junior Lawyer of the Year

This award celebrates an exceptional standard of work and great dedication to the role of a junior lawyer. The judges are looking for a lawyer who is excelling in their role or making a significant contribution to voluntary or pro-bono schemes.

The winner will be going beyond what is expected of a junior lawyer and bringing insight, flair, imagination and hard work to everything they do. Initiatives may include:

• Innovative Contributions: Introducing new ideas or efficiencies that improve legal services within their firm or organisation. 

• Leadership in Practice: Taking a significant role in a case, project, or area of legal practice that has made a tangible impact. 

• Advocacy and Change: Playing a role in a case, project, or initiative that has led to meaningful legal or policy developments.

• Professional Recognition: Gaining recognition from colleagues, clients, or industry bodies for their expertise, professionalism, or client service.

The judges will seek evidence of:

• Exceptional Legal Work: A strong contribution to legal practice, demonstrating skill, dedication, and impact. 

• Positive Influence: A clear social or commercial benefit resulting from their actions. 

• Commitment and Initiative: A proactive approach to their role, going above and beyond expectations.

Definition of Junior Lawyer: The Law Society defines a junior lawyer as solicitor apprentices, LPC/SQE students, LPC graduates (including those working as paralegals), trainee solicitors, and solicitors with up to five years of post-qualification experience.

Applicants are encouraged to provide compelling examples and testimonials showcasing their contributions and impact.

10. Leader of the Year 

This award recognises an outstanding Managing Partner or Senior Partner who has demonstrated transformative leadership within their firm and the wider legal profession. Judges will be looking for evidence of visionary leadership, strategic impact, and a commitment to excellence, including:

• Strategic Vision and Growth: Clear demonstration of a long-term vision that has driven significant growth, innovation, or structural transformation within the firm.

• Inspiring Leadership: Evidence of exceptional leadership that has motivated and empowered teams, fostered collaboration, and influenced positive cultural change.

• Innovation and Change Management: Introduction of forward-thinking strategies, processes, or technologies that have improved efficiency, client service, or legal practice.

• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Active promotion of inclusivity, wellbeing, and staff development within the firm.

• Outstanding Client and Stakeholder Relations: Strong relationships with clients and key stakeholders, leading to enhanced reputation and trust in the firm.

Applicants should provide examples of achievements, initiatives, and the measurable impact of their leadership.

11. Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award honours an individual who, in the Judges' perspective, has made an extraordinary contribution to enhancing the reputation of solicitors throughout their distinguished career in Surrey. While entries may encompass a range of criteria, candidates for this award embody the highest standards of integrity within the legal profession.

Key Criteria include:

• Collegial Respect: The nominee should command the ultimate respect of their colleagues within the legal community.

• Client Dedication: Demonstrated absolute dedication to clients throughout their career, reflecting a commitment to the highest level of service.

• Leadership Excellence: The nominee should be a recognised leader in their area of legal practice, setting a standard for professional excellence.

• Mentorship Legacy: A demonstrable record of being a mentor to colleagues, sharing knowledge and guidance with those they have worked alongside.

• Commitment to the Rule of Law: An unwavering commitment to upholding and promoting the Rule of Law throughout their career.

• Consummate Professionalism: Exemplify the qualities of a consummate professional, maintaining the highest ethical standards and conduct.

• Standing Out: The nominee should stand out from the crowd, demonstrating uniqueness and distinction in their contributions to the legal profession.

Nominees for this prestigious award are expected to have left an indelible mark on the legal landscape, serving as a beacon of excellence, integrity, and leadership throughout their illustrious career.

12. Private Client Team of the Year

The Private Client Team of the Year award acknowledges the top private client teams in the county, recognising excellence in private client practice. The judging panel will evaluate teams based on the following key criteria:

• Outstanding Legal Services: Demonstrate an exceptional quality of legal services for clients, supported by testimonials and evidence of going above and beyond expectations.

• Teamwork Excellence: Showcase excellent teamwork within the private client team and across the firm. Identify the most crucial factor contributing to the team's success.

• Collaborative Approach: Highlight a collaborative approach with external lawyers and/or other professionals in the private client sector.

• Innovation Commitment: Demonstrate a commitment to innovation in the practice of private client law, either within the firm or contributing to sector-wide advancements.

• Success in Complex Cases: Provide evidence of success in handling a particularly complex case with significant outcomes. Explain the major impact on both the team and the client.

Nominations are accepted from a team of solicitors or a group of legal professionals actively practising within the private client law domain.

Applicants are encouraged to present a compelling narrative, including specific case examples, testimonials, and collaborative efforts that highlight their team's outstanding contributions to the field of private client law.

13. Property Team of the Year

The Property Law Team of the Year award recognises the top property law/conveyancing teams in the county, showcasing excellence in property law practice. The judging panel will evaluate teams based on the following key criteria:

Key Entry Components include:

• Outstanding Legal Services: Demonstrate an exceptional quality of legal services for clients, supported by testimonials and evidence of going the extra mile in service delivery.

• Teamwork Excellence: Showcase excellent teamwork within the property law/conveyancing team and across the firm. Isolate the most crucial factor that has contributed to the team's success over the qualifying period.

• Collaborative Approach: Highlight a collaborative approach with external lawyers and/or other professionals in the property law sector.

• Innovation Commitment: Demonstrate a commitment to innovation in the practice of property law, either within the firm or contributing to sector-wide advancements.

• Success in Complex Cases: Provide evidence of success in handling a particularly complex case with significant outcomes. Explain the major impact on both the team and the client.

Nominations are accepted from a team of solicitors or a group of legal professionals actively practising within the property law/conveyancing domain. Entries are welcome from both commercial and residential property lawyers and specialists in landlord and tenant matters.

Applicants are encouraged to present a compelling narrative, including specific case examples, testimonials, and collaborative efforts that highlight their team's outstanding contributions to the field of property law and conveyancing.

14. Support Team Member of the Year

The Support Team Member of the Year Award invites nominations from colleagues or clients for outstanding paralegals, secretaries, cashiers, apprentices, and other dedicated professionals supporting Surrey Law Society members.

Key Evaluation Points include:

• Special Contributions: Nominations should highlight how the support team member has made a distinctive and valuable contribution to their organisation or specific clients.

• Dedication and Motivation: Emphasise the nominee’s dedication and motivation that goes above and beyond the call of duty, showcasing a commitment to excellence.

• Efficiency Improvements: The Judges will particularly note activities that have significantly improved the organisation's efficiency, enhancing its reputation, and/or contributing to the positive perception of the legal profession.

• Reputation Enhancement: Showcase specific examples of how the support team member has contributed to enhancing the organisation's reputation and, by extension, the reputation of the legal profession.

This award recognises and celebrates the unsung heroes who play a pivotal role in the success of legal practices, acknowledging their dedication, motivation, and the tangible impact they make on organisational efficiency and professional reputation.