Now in its 17th year, the awards, sponsored by LexisNexis and supported by the Attorney General, aim to celebrate the best pro bono activities undertaken by law students and law schools.
Taking home the award for best contribution by a law school was the University of London Refugee Law Clinic, while The Immigration Project by the University of Chester and Eastgate Chambers was awarded best contribution by a team of students. The City Community Legal Advice Centre by City University of London was recognised as best new pro bono activity, and the University of Law Bloomsbury campus was announced at the winner of the Law School Challenge, a fundraising initiative to raise funds for LawWorks and Advocate. Winning the award for best individual contribution was Benjamin O'Connell, student director of the University of Essex Law Clinic who in the last year handled almost a fifth of the clinic’s overall caseload.
Attorney General Victoria Prentis KC said: ‘I would like to say a huge congratulations to all the winners and nominees of this year’s awards, organised by LawWorks.
‘I am pleased to see that so many rising legal stars have been recognised tonight. As you embark on your legal careers, I encourage you to continue your excellent pro bono work. Providing your services for free is vitally important to upholding the Rule of Law and ensuring that everyone has equal access to legal advice.’
Alasdair Douglas, chair of LawWorks said: ‘LawWorks once again received an impressive number of nominations showcasing the breadth of pro bono undertaken by law schools and students across the UK, all those nominated or shortlisted deserve recognition and appreciation for their work.’
James Harper, director of global legal for LexisNexis, added: ‘Advancing the Rule of Law is at the heart of LexisNexis’s global business and strategy, whether through our tools and products or our own charitable work. It is therefore a privilege to support these awards and spotlight the amazing efforts made by the winners and all those nominated.’
