Shoosmiths crowned firm of the year at British Legal Awards

Shoosmiths was considered the strongest candidate for the title by a 22-strong panel of judges, chaired by City of London Law Society chairman Alasdair Douglas and including News UK general counsel Emma Moloney, 3i general counsel Kevin Dunn and BAE Systems group general counsel Philip Bramwell.

Other nominees for the award included Mishcon De Reya and Brodies.

Judges said: “A hugely successful 2014-15 financial year helped this finalist over the winning line.

“This firm is also a consistent high achiever in Legal Week’s flagship research reports, and was this year once again named as a Best Legal Employer.”

Claire Rowe, chief executive of Shoosmiths, said: “It was a very proud moment for me to accept this award on behalf of Shoosmiths because it recognises many years of hard work by all at the firm.

“Being named ‘UK Law Firm of the Year’ is a reflection of the fantastic progress we have made in so many aspects of our business - from the recruitment and development of our teams, to the growth in quality and scope of our client base and work.

“This important win is consistent with our strategic aim to become ‘the leading national law firm, famous for delivering a superb client experience’ and reflects that we are on track to achieve the goals we have set.”

As the judges highlighted, Shoosmiths posted strong financial results this year, with revenue for 2014/15 up by 10.4 per cent and net profit up by 38 per cent.

The event host was comedian and actor Hugh Dennis, while the chosen charity for the awards was War Child, which provides support to vulnerable children whose lives have been torn apart by war.