It’s double delight for Shoosmiths at awards
SHOOSMITHS was the big winner at the Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards 2024. The 22nd annual event saw financial disputes associate Shereen Johal crowned solicitor of the year and the practice winning the national law firm title.
Sarah Ramsey, who has been dean of The University of Law in Birmingham for nearly seven years, was honoured with the lifetime achievement award, while the Jewellery Quarter institute’s Eleanor Ford won outstanding student contribution.
Other winners on the night across 14 categories included Ellie Brookes of Pinsent Masons, named apprentice of the year, and Gateley Legal which was a double winner in the diversity and inclusion, and trainee solicitor categories.
This year’s ceremony featured three brand new awards for 2024 – outstanding student contribution, legal PA and junior barrister.
Birmingham Law Society president Alice Kinder said: “The Legal Awards have once again exemplified the diverse range of talent in our
region and placed Birmingham firmly on the map as a dynamic, progressive and influential legal hub.
“I am delighted that this year we have been able to reward talent in three brand-new categories and ensure that every contribution to our profession can be appropriately recognised.
“I hope that, by celebrating these achievements, we can continue to set an inspiring precedent for future generations.
“While talent is everywhere, opportunity is not and, as established professionals, we must work together to change that.”
The awards were held at the ICC in
Birmingham and hosted by comedian Peter Hill.
The event also supported the Social Mobility Foundation, which is the law society’s chosen charity for the year and which works with young people and employers to open up career paths for those from diverse backgrounds.