With a fresh new look and a growing number of emerging voices in law, this year’s awards spotlight not only excellence across the profession - but also innovation, inclusion, and the future of legal practice in the West Midlands.
The event is one of the highlights of the Birmingham Law Society calendar.
Birmingham Law Society is the largest local Law Society outside of London and the awards are a celebration of the best legal talent across Birmingham and the surrounding area.
The shortlisting judges were Lisa Watts, marketing consultant at 3PB Barristers, Salma Maqsood, president of Bristol Law Society and Christie Nelson, co-chair of Birmingham Solicitors' Group.
They said: “It has been wonderful to see not only strong engagement with current initiatives, but also the creation of new groups, fresh ideas, and a genuine commitment to growing Birmingham’s professional community.
“The standard of applications was exceptionally high, particularly within the junior lawyer categories, where the calibre, dedication, and quality of work truly stood out.”
President of the Birmingham Law Society, Matt O’Brien, added: “Congratulations to every shortlisted candidate for the 2026 Legal Awards.
“I am immensely proud to see the breadth and depth of legal talent we have here in the West Midlands - from students at the very start of their careers to our most senior practitioners.
“Some of the names on this year’s shortlist will be familiar to many of you; others are being recognised for the first time, and I’m especially pleased that we continue to uncover such outstanding hidden gems within our profession.
“This year, as you know, every shortlisted candidate will receive the Birmingham Law Society Hallmark of Excellence, which I hope they will share and display proudly in recognition of their achievements. In my book, they are all already winners.
“Of course, there can only be one winner in each category, and I wish every shortlisted candidate the very best of luck in the final judging process. I look forward to celebrating with you all in February.”
The shortlisted candidates are;
Outstanding Student Contribution of the Year 2026
Apprentice of the Year 2026
Trainee Solicitor of the Year 2026 sponsored by The University of Law
Paralegal of the Year 2026
Legal PA of the Year 2026 sponsored by the PA Forum
Solicitor of the Year 2026 sponsored by Landmark Information Group
Junior Barrister of the Year 2026 (10 years’ call and under)
Barrister of the Year 2026 (over 10 years’ call)
Partner of the Year 2026 sponsored by JM Glendinning Professional Risks
In-House Lawyer of the Year 2026
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award 2026
Pro Bono Award 2026
Law Firm of the Year 2026 (1-49 Employees)
Law Firm of the Year 2026 (50+ Employees) sponsored by St Philips Chambers
