THE categories have been unveiled for one of the most prestigious events in the calendar of the Scottish legal sector.

The Law Awards of Scotland, organised by The Herald in association with HR Consultancy, The Law Society of Scotland, McKinstry Practice Management, Stirling Park and Allied Surveyors Scotland, are now in their 13th year. And this year 22 awards will be contested as the programme highlights excellence and achievement across the Scottish legal sector.

Hilary Roberts, chief executive of HR Consultancy, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to acknowledge the many law firms across Scotland who are operating at the top of their game.”

Allied Surveyors Scotland is sponsoring the award for Real Estate Team of the Year, while the Law Society is sponsoring the award for International Firm of the Year.

Ian Thomson, managing director of Allied, said: “There are lots of wonderful people employed in this sector... and it is great that they will be recognised for their efforts”.

Graham Matthews, vice-president of The Law Society of Scotland, said: “The quality of our legal profession deserves to be seen as one of our proudest exports. The skills and experience of Scottish solicitors help drive business deals at home and abroad and our members deservedly have a strong international reputation in arbitration, commercial and constitutional law.”

Graeme McKinstry, managing director of McKinstry Practice Management, said: “We are delighted to be chosen to sponsor the most prestigious Outstanding Contribution Award which recognises the extra special contribution of a lawyer in the vanguard of the profession.”

Ronnie Murison, director of Sheriff Officer Services at Stirling Park, added: “We are delighted to partner with the awards this year again, supporting both the Debt Recovery Firm of the Year and Litigation Firm of the Year.”

The deadline for entries is Thursday, September 28. For more information please contact, Lyndsay Wilson on 0141 302 7407.