THE Law Awards of Scotland for 2019 were officially launched last night as The Herald and its partners embarked once again on their search for the finest legal talent and firms the country has to offer.
Scottish law firms and solicitors are being invited to state their case to win 23 awards this year, which got under way with a launch party at the Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow, in association with HRC Recruitment. It is the 15th time the annual awards have been staged.
Hilary Roberts, chief executive of HRC Recruitment: “HRC are delighted to be part of the Law Awards again this year. The team at Newsquest really do gather together the brightest and best within the market.
“The awards give those of us who liaise regularly with the market the chance to applaud all the hard work accomplished day in, day out.
“The legal market continues to innovate – in spite of uncertain circumstances – and it’s so exciting to see the high calibre of talent currently working in the sector.”
HRC Recruitment is joined by McKinstry Practice Management, Law Society of Scotland, Stirling Park, and Millar & Bryce in supporting the Law Awards of Scotland for 2019, which will recognise and honour the best in-house teams, individuals, law firms and suppliers across Scotland.
The entry process is open now, and the competition will culminate with the awards presentation at Glasgow’s Doubletree by Hilton, Glasgow Central on Wednesday November 27.
The black-tie occasion will climax with the presentation of the Outstanding Contribution Award, sponsored by McKinstry Practice Management, which will mark an outstanding contribution to the development of the Scottish legal profession.
Judges will look for evidence of how this individual has advanced the field of law and whose efforts, dedication, and commitment have supported the legal industry.
Last year the award was presented to Bill Drummond, who received praise for transforming Brodies from a single-site firm into a £66 million business during his 20 years at the helm.
McKinstry Practice Management director Graeme McKinstry described Mr Drummond as a “truly exceptional and a worthy recipient”.
Commenting on the 2019 awards, Mr McKinstry: “McKinstry Practice Management is delighted to be a sponsor (Outstanding Achievement Award) which recognises the outstanding contribution of lawyers in Scotland.
“This is a most prestigious award and is the pinnacle of the event”.
The 2018 awards saw MBM Commercial named Law Firm of the Year after judges were impressed with its business achievements and commitment to diversity.
Aamer Anwar, of Aamer Anwar & Co Solicitors & Notaries, was named Solicitor of the Year, after being commended for his work on the extradition case of Catalan politician Clara Ponsati.
It was the second time in two years that Mr Anwar had won the award.
Other results saw Skyscanner’s Carolyn Jameson named general counsel of the year for the second year running, while both Aidan O’Neill QC and John Scott QC were named silk of the year.
Law Society of Scotland is sponsoring the Innovation Award for 2019. Chief executive Lorna Jack said: “We are pleased to return as sponsors of the Law Awards of Scotland, celebrating the best of the legal profession in Scotland.
“The awards are a great way to recognise the innovation and good practice being undertaken by our members every day.
“Every year the shortlisted entries to the Law Awards give positive examples of the excellent legal services which we are all striving to uphold, demonstrating why the public can continue to have confidence in the legal profession in Scotland.”
Ronnie Murison, director of Sheriff Officer Services at Stirling Park, added: “Stirling Park are pleased to sponsor the revamped Herald Law Awards again this year, having been a partner from the very beginning, as we believe it is important to recognise and celebrate the amazing achievements of the legal profession’s top talents.”
Debbie Welch, sales and marketing director of Millar & Bryce, which is sponsoring the networking booklet at the event this year, said: “Millar & Bryce are delighted to sponsor and support The Law Awards Scotland, it is a fantastic opportunity to be part of an event that recognises the contribution of both firms and individuals within the legal profession”
The closing date for entries is Tuesday, October 8.
Full details of the awards are available by visiting http://newsquestscotlandevents.com/events/lawawards/ or by calling events manager Kirsty Loughlin on 0141 302 6016.
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