THE SLS LEGAL AWARDS 2026 WILL TAKE PLACE ON THURSDAY 15 OCTOBER 2026

Nominations are now open!

The SLS Legal Awards, sponsored by Evelyn Partners, were established in 2018 to celebrate the outstanding legal talent within the Surrey Law Society community. Now firmly established as one of the county’s leading legal celebrations, the awards recognise the exceptional achievements of firms, teams and individuals across Surrey’s legal profession.

Following the success of last year’s ceremony at G Live, Guildford, which welcomed more than 300 guests and a record number of nominations, the SLS Legal Awards return on Thursday 15 October 2026.

Nominations are now open across 15 award categories recognising excellence across firms, teams and individual professionals. The awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of colleagues, showcase the quality of work taking place across the county and highlight the strength of Surrey’s legal community.

The deadline for nominations is Friday 1 May 2026.

AWARD CATEGORIES

The categories for the 2026 SLS Legal Awards are:

  • Law Firm of the Year (16+ Fee Earners)
  • Law Firm of the Year (Up to 15 Fee Earners)
  • Client Experience Award
  • Community Impact Award
  • Employer of the Year
  • Family Law Team of the Year
  • Private Client Team of the Year
  • Property Law Team of the Year
  • Legal Team of the Year
  • Innovation in Legal Services Award
  • Lifetime Achievement Award
  • Outstanding Surrey Lawyer of the Year
  • Professional Support & Practice Management Award
  • Rising Star Award
  • Strategic Leadership Award

2026 CRITERIA

  • Law Firm of the Year (16+ Fee Earners)

    Judges will be looking for a firm that has demonstrated outstanding performance and leadership over the past 12 months.

    Entries should highlight:

    • Strong reputation and professional profile within the legal sector and wider community.
    • Evidence of strong performance and progress over the past 12 months, which may include growth, strategic initiatives or other measurable achievements.
    • Excellence in client service, supported by testimonials, feedback or measurable outcomes.
    • Effective leadership and management, demonstrating how the firm supports and motivates its people to achieve excellent results.
    • Commitment to a positive and inclusive workplace culture, including staff development, wellbeing, training and engagement.
    • Innovation and forward thinking, including the use of technology or new approaches to delivering legal services.
    • Positive contribution to the profession or wider community, including CSR or pro bono initiatives.

    Firms should demonstrate a clear vision for their business and tangible achievements over the past year. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, accreditations, awards or performance results.

  • Law Firm of the Year (Up to 15 Fee Earners)

    This award recognises an outstanding smaller practice that has demonstrated excellence, strong client relationships and a clear vision for its future.

    Judges will consider:

    • Reputation and impact within the local legal market or community.
    • Exceptional client care, including evidence of strong relationships and client feedback.
    • Strong leadership and direction within a smaller firm environment.
    • Commitment to creating a positive and inclusive working culture, including staff development and wellbeing.
    • Innovation, adaptability or entrepreneurial approaches to developing and growing the practice.
    • Contribution to the local community or legal profession.
    • Evidence of progress or success over the past 12 months, which may include growth, new services or other achievements.

    Entries should demonstrate how the firm has developed, evolved or achieved notable success during the past year. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, accreditations, awards or examples of results achieved.

  • Client Experience Award

    This award recognises firms that place clients at the heart of everything they do, delivering outstanding service and creating positive, memorable client experiences.

    Judges will be looking for clear evidence of a strong client-focused approach. Entries may highlight:

    • A client-centred approach, demonstrating how services are tailored to meet individual client needs.
    • Excellent communication and transparency, including clear advice, accessible information and transparent fee structures.
    • Accessibility and responsiveness, ensuring clients can easily engage with the firm and receive timely support.
    • Innovative approaches to client service, including the use of technology, new processes or creative initiatives that enhance the client experience.
    • Use of client feedback to drive improvement, including reviews, testimonials or satisfaction data.
    • Strong client relationships, demonstrated through repeat work, referrals or long-term client partnerships.

    Entries should demonstrate how the firm has delivered an outstanding client experience over the past 12 months. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, client feedback, reviews or examples of initiatives introduced.

  • Community Impact Award

    This award recognises a firm or individual within the legal profession who has made a meaningful and positive contribution to the local community or the wider legal profession. Nominations may be submitted for either a law firm, legal organisation, or an individual working within the legal sector.

    Judges will be looking for a genuine commitment to social responsibility and initiatives that make a difference beyond core legal work. Entries may highlight:

    • Community engagement initiatives, such as partnerships with local charities, schools or community organisations.
    • Pro bono legal work or initiatives supporting access to justice.
    • Volunteering, fundraising or charitable activities.
    • Mentoring or outreach initiatives supporting education or the legal profession.
    • Long-term commitment to a particular cause or community project.
    • Evidence of positive impact, including testimonials, outcomes or measurable results.

    Entries should demonstrate how the nominee’s activities have made a tangible difference over the past 12 months. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, case studies, fundraising outcomes or examples of community partnerships.

  • Employer of the Year

    This award recognises a firm that has created an outstanding workplace culture and demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting, developing and engaging its people.

    Judges will consider evidence of a positive and supportive working environment. Entries may highlight:

    • A positive and inclusive workplace culture, where staff feel valued and supported.
    • Strong leadership, fostering trust, collaboration and engagement across the organisation.
    • Commitment to staff development, including training, mentoring or career progression opportunities.
    • Initiatives that support staff wellbeing, including policies, programmes or benefits that promote a healthy work–life balance.
    • Recognition and reward, celebrating staff achievements and contributions.
    • Evidence of strong employee engagement, such as retention, feedback or testimonials from staff.

    Entries should demonstrate how the firm has created an environment where people thrive and are motivated to perform at their best. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, staff feedback, engagement initiatives or examples of measurable impact.

  • Family Law Team of the Year

    This award recognises an outstanding family law team that has demonstrated excellence in legal practice and client service over the past 12 months.

    Judges will be looking for teams that deliver high-quality legal services while supporting clients through complex and often sensitive matters. Entries may highlight:

    • Excellence in family law practice, including the quality of legal advice and outcomes achieved for clients.
    • Exceptional client care, particularly in supporting clients through complex or emotionally challenging situations.
    • Strong teamwork and collaboration within the team and across the wider firm.
    • Effective collaboration with other professionals or organisations where appropriate to support the best outcomes for clients.
    • Innovation or best practice in family law, including new approaches, processes or initiatives that improve client service.
    • Notable achievements during the past 12 months, such as significant matters handled, team developments or other successes.

    Entries should demonstrate how the team has worked together to deliver excellent outcomes for clients and contribute positively to the practice of family law. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, examples of work undertaken, or other relevant achievements.

  • Private Client Team of the Year

    This award recognises an outstanding private client team that has demonstrated excellence in legal practice and client service over the past 12 months.

    Judges will be looking for teams that deliver high-quality advice while supporting clients through complex personal and financial matters. Entries may highlight:

    • Excellence in private client practice, including the quality of legal advice and outcomes achieved for clients.
    • Exceptional client care, particularly in building trusted long-term relationships with individuals and families.
    • Strong teamwork and collaboration within the team and across the wider firm.
    • Effective collaboration with other professionals or organisations, where appropriate, to support the best outcomes for clients.
    • Innovation or best practice in private client work, including new approaches, processes or initiatives that enhance client service.
    • Notable achievements during the past 12 months, such as complex matters handled, team developments or other successes.

    Entries should demonstrate how the team has worked together to deliver excellent outcomes for clients and contribute positively to private client practice. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, examples of work undertaken, or other relevant achievements.

  • Property Law Team of the Year

    This award recognises an outstanding property law team that has demonstrated excellence in legal practice and client service over the past 12 months. Entries are welcome from teams practising in residential or commercial property, including specialists in conveyancing, landlord and tenant matters and other property-related work.

    Judges will be looking for teams that deliver high-quality legal services while effectively managing complex transactions and providing excellent support to clients.Entries may highlight:

    • Excellence in property law practice, including the quality of legal advice and outcomes achieved for clients.
    • Exceptional client care, particularly in managing transactions efficiently and keeping clients informed throughout the process.
    • Strong teamwork and collaboration within the property team and across the wider firm.
    • Effective collaboration with other professionals or organisations, where appropriate, to support the best outcomes for clients.
    • Innovation or best practice in property law, including new approaches, processes or technology that enhance service delivery.
    • Notable achievements during the past 12 months, such as significant transactions, team developments or other successes.

    Entries should demonstrate how the team has worked together to deliver excellent outcomes for clients and contribute positively to the practice of property law. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, examples of work undertaken or other relevant achievements.

  • Legal Team of the Year

    This award recognises an outstanding legal team that has demonstrated excellence in its area of practice over the past 12 months. This category is open to legal teams working in practice areas not otherwise recognised within the awards, such as litigation, corporate or commercial law, employment, regulatory or other specialist fields.

    Judges will be looking for teams that deliver high-quality legal services, work collaboratively and achieve excellent outcomes for their clients. Entries may highlight:

    • Excellence in legal practice, including the quality of advice and outcomes achieved for clients.
    • Exceptional client service, supported by testimonials or evidence of strong client relationships.
    • Strong teamwork and collaboration within the team and across the wider firm.
    • Effective collaboration with other professionals or organisations, where appropriate, to support the best outcomes for clients.
    • Innovation or best practice, including new approaches, processes or initiatives that enhance legal service delivery.
    • Notable achievements during the past 12 months, such as significant matters handled, team developments or other successes.

    Entries should demonstrate how the team has worked together to deliver excellent outcomes for clients and contribute positively to their area of legal practice. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, examples of work undertaken or other relevant achievements.

  • Innovation in Legal Services Award

    This award recognises a firm, team or individual that has introduced an innovative initiative which has significantly improved the delivery of legal services. Innovation may relate to the use of technology, new ways of working, service delivery improvements or creative approaches to solving challenges within the legal profession. Innovations may be developed internally or in collaboration with external partners or suppliers.

    Judges will be looking for initiatives that demonstrate originality, impact and measurable benefits for clients, colleagues or the wider profession. Entries may highlight:

    • Innovative ideas or initiatives that improve the delivery of legal services.
    • Use of technology or new processes to enhance efficiency, accessibility or client experience.
    • Creative solutions to challenges within legal practice or firm management.
    • Collaboration with colleagues or external partners, where relevant, to develop or deliver the innovation.
    • Measurable impact, such as improved client service, efficiency, accessibility or business performance.
    • Evidence of success, including outcomes, adoption within the firm or wider sector.

    Entries should demonstrate how the initiative has made a meaningful difference to legal practice or client service over the past 12 months. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, case studies, examples of the initiative in practice or measurable outcomes.

  • Lifetime Achievement Award

    The Lifetime Achievement Award recognises an individual who has made an outstanding and lasting contribution to the legal profession in Surrey over the course of their career. This prestigious honour celebrates individuals whose dedication, professionalism and leadership have had a significant and enduring impact on their firm, colleagues, clients or the wider legal community.

    The award may recognise lawyers or other professionals who have played a pivotal role in supporting and strengthening the legal profession throughout their career. Judges will consider nominees who demonstrate:

    • A distinguished career marked by long-standing commitment to the legal profession.
    • Significant contribution to the reputation and development of the profession in Surrey.
    • Respect and recognition from colleagues, peers and the wider legal community.
    • Leadership, mentorship or influence, helping to support and develop others within the profession.
    • Commitment to professional values, including integrity, professionalism and dedication to clients or colleagues.
    • A lasting legacy, demonstrated through their impact on their firm, the profession or the community.

    This award recognises individuals whose careers have left a meaningful and enduring mark on the legal profession. Nominations may include testimonials or reflections from colleagues that illustrate the nominee’s contribution and influence over the course of their career.

  • Outstanding Surrey Lawyer of the Year

    This award recognises an exceptional lawyer who has demonstrated outstanding professional achievement and made a significant contribution to their firm, clients or the wider legal community in Surrey over the past 12 months.

    The award is open to lawyers at any stage of their career, and the judges will be looking for individuals whose work, professionalism and commitment to excellence distinguish them within the Surrey legal community. Entries may highlight:

    • Outstanding legal expertise, demonstrated through the quality and impact of work delivered for clients.
    • Exceptional client service, including evidence of strong relationships, trust and positive outcomes.
    • Significant professional achievements during the past 12 months, such as notable matters handled, cases won or projects delivered.
    • Leadership, initiative or influence, whether through leading teams, mentoring colleagues or contributing to the development of others.
    • Contribution to the wider profession or community, including pro bono work, professional involvement or community initiatives.
    • Commitment to professional excellence, including integrity, judgement and dedication to the highest standards of legal practice.

    Entries should demonstrate how the nominee has distinguished themselves through the quality of their work, their impact on others and their contribution to the profession. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, examples of work undertaken or other relevant achievements.

  • Professional Support & Practice Management Award

    This award recognises the vital contribution made by professional support and practice management professionals to the success of their firm and the delivery of high-quality legal services. Nominations are welcome for individuals, teams or functions working in areas such as practice management, operations, compliance, finance, HR, marketing, IT, or other professional support roles within a law firm.

    Judges will be looking for nominees who demonstrate excellence in supporting the effective management and operation of their organisation. Entries may highlight:

    • Excellence in professional support or practice management, including the effective running of key functions within the firm.
    • Positive impact on the firm’s performance, culture or client service.
    • Innovation or improvements to systems, processes or ways of working.
    • Strong collaboration with colleagues across the firm, supporting lawyers and other teams to achieve excellent results.
    • Leadership, initiative or problem-solving, helping the firm adapt to challenges or opportunities.
    • Notable achievements during the past 12 months, such as projects delivered, systems implemented or operational improvements.

    Entries should demonstrate how the nominee has made a meaningful contribution to the success and effectiveness of their organisation. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, examples of initiatives introduced, or measurable outcomes.

  • Rising Star Award

    This award recognises an exceptional early-career lawyer who has demonstrated outstanding potential and made a significant contribution to their firm, clients or the wider legal community. The Rising Star Award celebrates individuals who are already making a strong impact in their professional role and showing the qualities that mark them as future leaders of the profession.

    Judges will be looking for individuals who demonstrate initiative, talent and a commitment to excellence in legal practice. Entries may highlight:

    • Outstanding legal work, demonstrating strong technical ability and a commitment to delivering excellent outcomes for clients.
    • Exceptional client service, including evidence of building strong client relationships and trust.
    • Initiative and innovation, such as introducing new ideas, efficiencies or approaches that improve legal services.
    • Leadership potential, including taking responsibility on matters, mentoring others or contributing to team success.
    • Contribution to the wider profession or community, including pro bono work, volunteering or involvement in professional initiatives.
    • Commitment to professional development, demonstrating ambition, learning and growth in their career.

    Entries should demonstrate how the nominee has gone beyond expectations and shown the qualities of a future leader within the legal profession. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, examples of work undertaken or other relevant achievements.

    Eligibility
    For the purposes of this award, a Rising Star is defined as an individual in the early stages of their legal career, such as a trainee solicitor, solicitor apprentice, paralegal or qualified lawyer with up to five years’ post-qualification experience.

  • Strategic Leadership Award

    This award recognises an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in guiding the strategy, growth or transformation of a legal practice. The award is open to senior leaders within law firms, including managing partners, senior partners, CEOs, COOs or other professionals responsible for the strategic direction and success of their organisation.

    Judges will be looking for individuals who have played a pivotal role in shaping their firm’s performance, culture or long-term vision. Entries may highlight:

    • Strategic leadership, including the development and successful implementation of the firm’s vision or business strategy.
    • Positive impact on firm performance, such as growth, transformation, new services or improved operational effectiveness.
    • Leadership of people and culture, fostering an environment where colleagues can develop and perform at their best.
    • Innovation or forward thinking, including introducing new approaches, technology or service models.
    • Contribution to the wider profession or community, including leadership beyond their own firm.
    • Demonstrable achievements over the past 12 months, showing how their leadership has driven meaningful progress.

    Entries should demonstrate how the nominee’s leadership has had a significant and measurable impact on their organisation and the wider legal community. Supporting evidence may include testimonials, examples of initiatives led, or measurable business outcomes.

VENUE & BOOKING INFORMATION

Date: Thursday 16th October 2025

Venue: G Live, London Rd, Guildford GU1 2AA.

 

Ticket Prices:

  • Early Bird Rate (until 8th August 2025):
    • Individual Ticket: £145 plus VAT
    • Table of 10: £1,350 plus VAT
    • Second Table Discount: £900 plus VAT
  • Standard Rate (from 9th August 2025):
    • Individual Ticket: £160 plus VAT
    • Table of 10: £1,600 plus VAT
    • Second Table Discount: £1,000 plus VAT

What’s Included:

  • Drinks reception upon arrival
  • Exquisite three-course dinner and wine
  • Access to the awards ceremony
  • Entertainment throughout the evening
  • Speech by special guest speaker
  • Attendance at the casino

 

How to Book:

To secure your tickets, please visit our booking page or contact Elouise.Enright@surreylawsociety.org.uk.

 

Payment Options:

  • Credit/Debit Card (via online booking)
  • Bank Transfer (details provided upon request)
  • Cheque (made payable to Surrey Law Society)
Kindly be aware that there is an additional  booking fee applied to the overall ticket prices of 1.5% plus 80p per transaction.

2025 Event Programme:

 

6:00pm Welcome Reception Lower Foyer
7:00pm Welcome by the President Main Auditorium
7:15pm Gala Dinner Main Auditorium
8:45pm An After-Dinner Speech Main Auditorium
9:30pm SLS Legal Awards Ceremony Main Auditorium
10:30pm Post Awards Entertainment and Bar Lower Foyer
12:30am Carriages

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Accommodation:

G Live does not have any accommodation onsite but there are a number of nearby options available for those wishing to stay overnight.

Both the Mandolay Hotel and Harbour Hotel are within a 2-minute walk of G Live, with the Travelodge Guildford a 6-minute drive away and Guildford Manor Hotel & Spa and the Holiday Inn 10 minutes’ drive away.

The Surrey Law Society has not reserved any rooms but at the time of writing, all venues listed above are showing availability for the night of the 12th October, with other options also available via the major hotel bookings websites.  Please visit sites such as booking.com or hotels.com or the hotel websites directly to ascertain availability and the most preferable rates.

 

 

Cancellation Policy:

  • Cancellations made before 8th August 2025 will receive a full refund.
  • Cancellations made between 9th August and 5th September 2025 will receive a 50% refund.
  • No refunds will be given for cancellations made after 5th September 2025.

 

GUEST SPEAKER DETAILS

We're delighted that our Guest Speaker in 2025 is The Dark Destroyer, Shaun Wallace!

Shaun Wallace is a barrister, lecturer, and well-known television personality, best recognised as one of the iconic ‘Chasers’ on ITV’s The Chase. Known by fans as ‘The Dark Destroyer’ and ‘The Legal Eagle’, Shaun has featured on the show since its launch in 2009, impressing audiences with his broad knowledge and calm authority.

Admitted to the Bar in 1984, Shaun has enjoyed a long and distinguished legal career. He continues to practise as a member of Great James Street Chambers and regularly lectures in law, specialising in areas such as environmental law and health and safety. His dual role as a legal professional and educator has made him a compelling advocate for legal education and access to the profession.

In 2004, Shaun became the first Black winner of the BBC’s Mastermind, and has since competed on a number of other high-profile quiz shows including The Weakest Link, Celebrity Catchphrase, Countdown, and Are You an Egghead?. In 2012, he placed in the top 300 at the World Quizzing Championships, underlining his standing as one of the country’s brightest quiz minds.

Shaun is also a powerful and passionate voice for racial equality and social inclusion. He regularly speaks at events and in the media during Black History Month, sharing his lived experience to highlight the ongoing need for progress. His interviews on programmes such as Good Morning Britain and Channel 5’s Racism: My Story have resonated with millions, offering a candid perspective on racism in Britain today.  He advocates for the inclusion of Black History to the curriculum on the basis of supporting greater respect of all people in the country.

From the courtroom to the classroom to the television screen, Shaun Wallace has carved out a unique and impactful career – one that continues to inform, challenge and inspire.

 

2025 Sponsors

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HEADLINE SPONSOR OF THE SLS LEGAL AWARDS 2025

Evelyn Partners is the UK’s leading integrated wealth management and professional services group, created following the merger of Tilney and Smith & Williamson. With £54.4 billion of assets under management (as at 31 March 2023), it ranks as the second largest UK wealth manager measured by EBITDA and the fifth largest professional services firm ranked by fee income (source: Accountancy Age 50+50 rankings, 2022).

It has a network of offices across 28 towns and cities in the UK, as well as the Republic of Ireland and the Channel Islands. Through its operating companies, the Group offers an extensive range of financial and professional services to individuals, family trusts, professional intermediaries, charities and businesses.

Evelyn Partners’ purpose is to ‘place the power of good advice into more hands’, and it is uniquely well-placed to support clients with both their personal financial affairs and their business interests. Evelyn Partner’s personal wealth management services include financial planning, investment management and advice, personal tax advice and, through Bestinvest, an award-winning online investment service for self-directed investors. For businesses, its wide range of services includes assurance and accounting, business tax advice, employee benefits, forensic advice, fund administration, fund governance, recovery and restructuring and transaction services.

Visit the Evelyn Partners Website

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Evelyn Partners, Headline Sponsor & Sponsor of Law Firm of the Year (20+)

Evelyn Partners is the UK’s leading integrated wealth management and professional services group, created following the merger of Tilney and Smith & Williamson. With £55.8 billion of assets under management (as at 31 March 2022), it ranks as the second largest UK wealth manager measured by EBITDA and the sixth largest professional services firm ranked by fee income (source: Accountancy Age 50+50 rankings, 2021).  It has a network of offices across 27 towns and cities in the UK, as well as the Republic of Ireland and the Channel Islands. Through its operating companies, the Group offers an extensive range of financial and professional services to individuals, family trusts, professional intermediaries, charities and businesses.

Evelyn Partners’ purpose is to ‘place the power of good advice into more hands’, and it is uniquely well-placed to support clients with both their personal financial affairs and their business interests. Evelyn Partner’s personal wealth management services include financial planning, investment management and advice, personal tax advice and, through Bestinvest, an award-winning online investment service for self-directed investors. For businesses, its wide range of services includes assurance and accounting, business tax advice, employee benefits, forensic advice, fund administration, fund governance, recovery and restructuring and transaction services.

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Helen Clifford Law, Drinks Reception Sponsor & Sponsor of Lawyer of the Year

Helen Clifford Law was established in June 2021 by Helen Clifford, a multi-award-winning solicitor with over 28 years of experience representing injured and bereaved clients. The firm specialises in complex personal injury and medical negligence claims, offering a bespoke, personal service tailored to client’s individual needs. Renowned for achieving outstanding outcomes, Helen frequently represents high-profile clients – most recently securing a successful settlement for Nick Sturdee in his claim against the BBC. In addition to her legal work, Helen is a passionate campaigner for improved workplace health and safety, with a particular focus on the construction industry.

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Pro Drive, Sponsor of Law Firm of the Year (Under 20)

Pro Drive work with law firms who prefer to outsource the planning and management of their IT systems. Our clients want to use technology to help put them ahead of their competition but they do not have the time or expertise to do this themselves. We can help with IT Support & Cyber Security, built around a strategic plan.

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Konsileo, Sponsor of Business Services Team of the Year

Konsileo is redefining the insurance landscape by empowering brokers with cutting-edge technology, resources, and freedom to deliver bespoke protection for every client. Their collaborative model combines expert advice with innovative tools to create a seamless, future-focused broking experience. Representing Konsileo, Alex Hill brings a wealth of insight from a background in law firm management, where he was often the client securing policies such as Professional Indemnity, Office, and Cyber. With experience in small businesses and a family history in insurance, Alex understands diverse priorities and is committed to delivering clear, practical advice and tailored solutions for every business.

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Insight6, Sponsor of Client Experience Award

As Customer Experience (CX) specialists in the legal sector, insight6 partners with over 250 UK law firms to drive new business, retain satisfied clients, and foster a CX-focused culture. We help firms measure client journeys, gather real-time feedback, and deliver motivational team training, ensuring CX becomes a boardroom priority. For more information, contact Paul Matthews at paul.matthews@insight6.com.

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Barbri, Sponsor of Employer of the Year

BARBRI supports over 250 leading law firms across the UK with SQE and legal skills training. Our flexible, accessible, and dynamic learning model, combined with market-leading pass rates, makes BARBRI the trusted partner for legal education, whether you’re training future solicitors, upskilling paralegals, or supporting lawyers qualified in other jurisdictions.

We deliver exceptional support to our law firm partners, including live student progress reports, exam vouchers, and a dedicated client services team committed to meeting your needs.

Leveraging 50 years of expertise and ongoing investment in technology, BARBRI’s courses are delivered online in a way that’s both engaging and impactful, ensuring your teams are prepared for success.

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Guildford Chambers, Sponsor of Family Law Team of the Year

Guildford Chambers is a progressive, multi-disciplinary set of barristers, uniquely positioned to provide competitive and effective advocacy for individuals and businesses in Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, London and the Southeast.

Our growing portfolio of client’s value that we work with them as an extension of their team, and we endeavour to build strong and successful working relationships. We operate a system of specialist practice groups which ensure you receive the best advice and advocacy from your chosen barrister.

Our barristers and experienced, responsive clerking team share an uncompromising attitude to quality and client service with a sensible approach to cost.

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Actionstep, Sponsor of Leader of the Year

Actionstep is a fast-growing, dynamic SaaS (Software as a Service) business with a global customer base, including 22,000+ users globally and 100+ UK law firms. Actionstep delivers a comprehensive legal practice management cloud platform to midsize law firms looking for a flexible all-in-one solution.

Combining all the work of law firms in one platform, including Matter Management, CRM, Document Assembly and Management, Time and Billing, Payments, Client and Business Accounting, Reporting, and more, Actionstep is where law works.

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Fraser & Fraser, Sponsor of Private Client Team of the Year

Fraser and Fraser is home to expert genealogists and probate researchers who offer you and your clients a first-class service. At the forefront of the industry, we support legal professionals to locate missing beneficiaries and heirs worldwide.

All our case managers are registered under the Professional Paralegal Register (PPR) regulated by the Institute of Paralegals (IoP), we are an award-winning ISO 9001, 27001, 14001 and 45001 accredited business.

Offering a range of services;

Missing Beneficiary Insurance
Free Family Tree Check
Risk-free Administrator Search Service
– And more!

We pride ourselves on our commitment and clarity, treating each referral on a case-by-case basis. We’re happy to answer your questions, please do get in touch.

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Landmark Information, Sponsor of Property Law Team of the Year

Landmark Information is at the forefront of legal products and data supply to support the UK’s Property Professionals. Our dedicated, personal approach supports legal professionals in their due diligence in line with the Law Society and SRA requirements. Landmarks longevity in the legal market brings valuable experience and dependability to risk solutions whilst continuing to innovate.

 

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Find Me A Solicitor, Balloon Sponsor

Find me a solicitor, founded in 2022 by a qualified solicitor Dee Kundi, is a multi-award winning digital legal tech platform which is a FREE and independent service for all individuals and businesses looking for the right solicitors for all areas of law.

Findmeasolicitor.co.uk (FMAS) are a solicitor-led-brokerage for the UK disrupting the legal profession in the way law firms obtain clients. FMAS are much more than just a lead generator as all our clients are vetted and approved before introducing them to our panel of Solicitors.

Alongside this FMAS offer 30 minutes free legal consultation, to help clients navigate the maze of appointing the most appropriate solicitor by obtaining all relevant documents including the AML documentation before passing onto our panel of experienced solicitors.

Within this process FMAS brief the solicitor with the background, enabling them to provide a quote immediately and represent the client from the offset.  This saves so much time not only for the client but also for the solicitor including saving so much non chargeable time. We can also help obtain feedback and reviews from clients.

Contact us today for a trial and grow your client portfolio on a no obligation basis:

Name: Dee Kundi

Website: www.findmeasolicitor.co.uk

Phone: 0800 020 9197

Email: Dee@findmeasolicitor.co.uk

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We have a range of sponsorship options available for the 2025 SLS Legal Awards, details of which can be found here.

For further information on the opportunities available, email Helen Opie, CEO at helen.opie@surreylawsociety.org.uk.

Meet the Judges

Veronica Gilmour

Veronica is a partner in the family law team at Penningtons Manches Cooper. She has a broad range of experience which includes advising on private children disputes, pensions on divorce and pre and post marital agreements. She has particular expertise in high value, complex financial cases in both the UK and internationally.

Accredited by Resolution as a specialist family lawyer, she has been at the forefront of the development of non-adversarial alternatives in family law matters for a number of years. She is a qualified collaborative lawyer with a thriving mediation practice and is a long-standing member of the Surrey Resolution Committee.

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John Hyde

John Hyde is Deputy News Editor at The Law Society Gazette. He reports extensively on all matters impacting the legal profession and has his finger on the pulse of latest developments.

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Rita Leat

Rita Leat is the Chief Executive of the Institute of Paralegals and a founder and Managing Director of the overarching voluntary regulator for Paralegals, the PPR. With over 27 years experience in the Paralegal sector, representing the interests of Paralegals Nationally, Rita has become known as the Chief Executive of All Things Paralegal.

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John-Paul MacNamara

John-Paul was called to the Bar by the Middle Temple in 2008 and cross-qualified as a solicitor in 2011. He worked for many years for a Top 100 Law firm and was eventually promoted to partner and Head of Crown Court Advocacy before moving to GT Stewart Solicitors and Advocates in 2017. He has appeared in the Crown Court as Leading Junior, Led Junior and Junior alone and has advocated extensively in the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division). He has represented defendants for offences ranging from intercontinental drug importation to kidnap and murder. He completed his vulnerable witness training with the Law Society and is well known in London courts for his measured style of advocacy and tenacious closing speeches.

J-P was shortlisted in the 2015 and 2016 Law Society Excellence Awards in the category of “Solicitor Advocate of the Year”. In the 2016 shortlist the Judges’ panel, described him as “having developed a reputation as a leading advocate – particularly in cross-examination of expert witnesses”. At GT Stewart he was a prominent member of their Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners ranked crime teams, and won The “Lawyer of the Year Award” with the Surrey Law Society in 2019.

In January 2020 J-P joined the staff at the City Law School and is an advocacy tutor as well as a tutor on the Criminal Litigation, Evidence and Sentencing module of the Bar Vocational Studies course. J-P also lectures to Pupils at Middle Temple and having formally returned to the Bar, holds a door tenancy at 33 Bedford Row.

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Neil Rose

Neil is a qualified solicitor and has been a legal journalist since 1995. He is the founder and editor of Legal Futures, a news-driven website providing market intelligence for law firms of the future. He is a recognised market commentator on ABSs, legal regulation and the future of the market.

In 2014, he won the Legal Journalism of the Year award at the Halsbury Legal Awards. Neil has freelanced for a wide range of publications, including The Guardian and The Times. He is also a co-director of Black Letter Communications, a specialist public relations agency for the legal sector.

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Allie Parsons

Allie Parsons, Customer Success Consultant – Landmark Information Group

Engagement and education are key to Allie’s role as Customer Success Consultant. She has over 30 years’ experience in marketing, consulting & advising various businesses, the last 16 years working with Law firms. She also has a broad experience in professional training and delivers seminars and training sessions for legal professionals on a range of property related issues.

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Helen Forster

Helen Forster is the Managing Director of the firm HTF Legal and is a solicitor and Trusts and Estates Practitioner. Since qualifying in 2009, she has specialised in Wills, Probate, Trusts, Tax and Court of Protection matters. She is also a Dementia Champion with Age UK, a member of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers and also a member of STEP (The Society of Trusts and Estates Practitioners).

Her other work includes seminars, lecturing and training throughout the Country with institutions such as regional Law Societies, STEP Branches and MBL Seminars Limited, as well as providing in house training to firms on a number of subjects.

Helen also teaches night classes at Rossett School Adult Learning in Harrogate, giving individuals an insight into how legal documents such as Lasting Powers of Attorney are drafted, as well as pitfalls and problems.

Recently Helen’s firm HTF Legal was awarded Boutique Firm of the year in the Modern Law Awards 2025, and Helen herself was highly commended as Female Trailblazer of the Year. She is shortlisted for Managing Partner of the Year in the Modern Law Private Client Awards 2025 in addition.

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Bruce Penson

Following a successful career at a leading multinational metals manufacturer, Bruce is now the Managing Director and driving force at Pro Drive.

Alongside developing technology strategies for Pro Drive’s clients, Bruce can be found presenting to, and educating businesses on the subjects he is passionate about – cyber security and business productivity.

As well as being an active and engaging figure in IT industry circles, Bruce loves the outdoors and is a keen mountain biking and sailing enthusiast.

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Anna Newport

Anna Newport is a well-respected solicitor with a comprehensive background in land and property law. Her diverse experience, ranging from large corporate to local firms, has equipped her with extensive knowledge covering most conveyancing topics. Renowned for her expertise in complex land law, Anna combines her legal acumen with a straightforward approach, serving clients across England and Wales.

As the Managing Director of Newport Land and Law since 2017, she has contributed significantly to the field, often consulted by statutory bodies and government departments for her clear insights. She is one of the course authors for the Law Society’s CQS accreditation and is an occasional contributor to a number of conveyancing publications.

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Paul Matthews

Paul Matthews, CCXP, is the Customer Experience Director for insight6, overseeing the regions of Surrey and Sussex. With a robust background in the Health and Fitness Sector spanning 20 years, Paul has cultivated extensive experience in customer-facing roles and has taken on significant commercial responsibilities within various businesses.

For the past nine and a half years, Paul has dedicated his career to Customer Experience (CX), focusing on helping businesses across all sectors from Attractions to Professional Services to become customer-centric. When Customer Centricity is achieved it results in improved new business acquisition, greater repeat purchases, and increased customer referrals. His philosophy is simple yet profound: by placing the customer at the heart of the business and making them the focal point, remarkable business performance is achievable.

Paul’s expertise in CX is well-recognized, as he is one of only 74 individuals in the UK to hold the prestigious ‘Certified Customer Experience Professional’ (CCXP) accreditation.

At insight6, although their services span across all industries, Paul and his colleagues work with over 150 law firms, assisting them in gaining deeper insights into their prospect and client experiences, and in turn, helping them to achieve their wider business goals.

We are delighted to welcome Paul to our judging panel for this year’s Surrey Business Awards.

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Neil Partridge

The Operations Director at PDA Legal, Neil supervises the PDA team’s work on key compliance and risk management concerns in legal practices all over the country.

PDA’s clients include high-volume, niche/specialist, multi-office, sole practitioners and multinational firms, with a remit of support that involves R21 Independent AML audits, in-person training, consultancy, file reviews and policy authoring on aspects including; AML, SRA inspections, the GDPR, CQS, Lexcel and cyber security.

Neil has personally conducted more than 800 auditing, training or consultancy visits. Topically, including extensive and timely support to firms undergoing SRA AML inspections.

A contributor to Thomson Reuters Practical Law, he has also authored and presented material and webinars for the Law Society, as well as speaking at numerous Law Society national conferences.

Neil is a co-founder of the Best Practice Group, enjoying regular contact with more than 140 ‘BPG’ member practices from across the UK, including several Surrey Law Society firms.

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FAQS

Is it free to nominate?
Yes
Our firm has many individuals doing excellent work. Is there a limit on how many entries can be submitted?
Yes, there are some limits to the number of nominations you can submit based on the number of members in your firm. Please contact admin@surreylawsociety.org.uk for more information.
What is the criteria and format of each award?
Please view the categories and criteria page for details of each Award.
Can non-solicitors enter?
Yes. We accept entries from Solicitors, Barristers, Legal Executives, Licensed Conveyancers and from paralegals and support staff where appropriate so long as the firm and/or individual is a member of the Surrey Law Society.
Can I nominate someone for an individual award if I don’t work in a Law Firm?
Yes.
What is the deadline for nominations?
Nominations are now closed for 2025. Please note that all firms/individuals nominated must be members of the Surrey Law Society.
How do I nominate?
Nominating couldn't be easier, members can download the relevant Nomination Form for the category of their choice and return this to helen.opie@surreylawsociety.org.uk. You may support your nomination by submitting independent objective evidence of the nominees achievements from 3rd parties, for example, in the form of testimonials received on letter headed paper, by email, via press cuttings etc. – these should be concise and no more than three sides of A4.
When do the judges consider the nominations?
Between May and August 2025.
When will the shortlist be announced?
The shortlist for the 2025 has now been announced.
When will the winners be announced?
The winners will be announced at the Awards Dinner and Ceremony at G-Live, Guildford, on Thursday 16th October 2025.
Who can attend the Awards Dinner?
Tickets are available to all members - you don't need to have entered the awards.

Contact us

Please do not hesitate to get in touch should you have any queries regarding an award category, the shortlist, judging process or the Awards Dinner.
Email: helen.opie@surreylawsociety.org.uk or elouise.enright@surreylawsociety.org.uk or phone: 0333 577 3830 Mobile : 07597 582400