Associate Jonathan Andrews was awarded Junior Lawyer of the Year after impressing judges with his professional expertise and in his efforts leading on outstanding work in the disability inclusion field.

Andrews, who has recently been named among the most influential disabled people in the UK by the Shaw Trust Power List, said: “I’m honoured to be recognised by The Law Society, alongside fellow leading individuals and firms across the profession. In particular, having begun many of the initiatives for which I have been recognised as a future trainee solicitor and LPC student, and having been shortlisted while still a trainee, I hope that my shortlisting demonstrates to others that lawyers and trainees of all levels can make a difference, regardless of seniority”.

Financial Industry Group partner Daniel Winterfeldt was also recognised. He was highly commended as Solicitor of the Year in private practice for his prolific charity work and impressive leadership qualities. Winterfeldt, whose practice focuses on representing investment banks and corporate issuers in a wide range of securities transactions, founded the InterLaw Diversity Forum with the aim of promoting LGBT diversity and inclusion in the legal industry. The forum, which has more than 6,000 members and supporters has to date raised over £400,000 from its annual fundraiser. 

In addition, Reed Smith was also highly commended for the Excellence in Pro Bono Award for its work with Kids in Need of Defense UK alongside Arnold & Porter, Covington & Burling, Ropes & Gray, Shearman & Sterling. Through the initiative, the free legal advice and support helps undocumented children and their families regularise their status so they can remain in the UK. Without this legal support to secure their right to remain, the impact on families can be devastating.

Reed Smith was also nominated for the Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award for its engagement in and support of the Reignite Academy initiative, which supports female lawyers in their return to the legal profession after taking a career break.