The winners of the prestigious 23rd Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards were revealed, celebrating the top legal talent shaping the sector in Birmingham and the West Midlands. Richard Port, MBE, President of the society, described this year as “the most difficult year to judge in the history of the Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards.”
Held at the ICC Birmingham on Thursday, February 13, the glittering awards ceremony was hosted by PJ Ellis, Birmingham-based radio DJ and former Big Brother star. The event highlighted the outstanding legal work being done in Birmingham, while also showcasing the exceptional talent in the city’s legal community.
Richard Port MBE, 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.”
A record number of entries were submitted for this year’s awards, before an expert panel of judges made up of representatives from the legal and business sector whittled them down to the final 64 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.
As well as being a celebration of our top legal talent, it was an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for the President’s two chosen charities of the year: She Beasts CIC and Mankind Initiative – both of which support victims of domestic abuse. These local charities will each receive a share of the £3766 raised at the event, which saw an auction and balloon raffle where a signed poster of Tom Holland as Spiderman was up for grabs.
This year’s awards are sponsored 3PB Barristers, Access Managed Services, Birmingham City University, Datalaw, Fazenda, JM Glendinning Professional Risks, Kangs Solicitors, Landmark Information, LEAP, PA Forum, St Ives Chambers, St Philips Chambers, The University of Law and Verify 365.