‘The most difficult year to judge’ – Law Society award winners revealed
The president of Birmingham Law Society hailed the 23rd Legal Awards as “the most difficult year to judge” after the winners were revealed at the ICC last night.
A number of Greater Birmngham Chambers of Commerce members – including Shoosmiths, Bevan Brittan, Gateley, Weightmans, No.5 Barristers’ Chambers and Trowers & Hamlins – were among the winners.
The glittering ceremony was hosted by Birmingham-based broadcaster PJ Ellis.
Richard Port (pictured), president of Birmingham Law Society, said: “This has perhaps been the most difficult year to judge in the history of the Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards, due to the record number of outstanding entrants.
“After careful deliberation, we are thrilled to have shortlisted 64 individuals and firms across 14 categories.
“The West Midlands and Birmingham continues to be home to some of the most influential and innovative legal professionals, and it’s an honour to recognise their exceptional achievements.
“The Birmingham Law Society is incredibly proud to celebrate this success at our prestigious awards ceremony.”
Sixty-four individuals and firms shortlisted across the 14 categories.
Among the winners, Becca Horley of Shoosmiths LLP fought off fierce competition in her category to be recognised as Solicitor of the Year 2025.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Claire Darley of FBC Manby Bowdler.
The full list of winners are:
Outstanding Student Contribution of the Year 2025
Gurpreet Chaggar - The College of Legal Practice
Apprentice of the Year 2025
Tyla Glover - Bevan Brittan LLP
Trainee Solicitor of the Year 2025
Alexandra Hill - Trowers & Hamlins LLP
Paralegal of the Year 2025
Tabitha Butler - Weightmans LLP
Legal PA of the Year 2025
Claire Hanke
Veale Wasbrough Vizards LLP
Solicitor of the Year 2025
Becca Horley - Shoosmiths LLP
Junior Barrister of the Year 2025 (10 Years’ Call and Under)
Sioned Davies - No5 Barristers’ Chambers
Barrister of the Year 2025 (Over 10 Years’ Call)
Michelle Heeley KC - No5 Barristers’ Chambers
Partner of the Year 2025
Matthew Giles - Squire Patton Boggs (UK) LLP
In-House Lawyer of the Year 2025
Baljinder Singh Atwal - West Midlands Police
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award 2025
Gateley Legal
Pro Bono Award 2025
Lottie Millington - Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP
Law Firm of the Year 2025 (1-49 Employees)
Spencer Shaw Solicitors
Law Firm of the Year 2025 (50+ Employees)
Gateley Legal
Lifetime Achievement Award 2025
Claire Darley - FBC Manby Bowdler
