SME law network LawNet has named the two firms of the year in its annual awards, which are held to celebrate innovation and success across the organisation’s members.
South-west firm Wolferstans LLP was named Law Firm of the Year in the £6 million-plus category, while Nottingham-based Actons received the accolade in the category for firms with a turnover up to £6 million.
‘With five-star client ratings online and thriving internal cultures, both firms show how empowering people drives performance and delivers impact’, LawNet said.
“Wolferstans’ ambitious strategy for growth through exceptional client experience is delivering measurable outcomes. Client loyalty, data-led service design and investment in people have driven sustainable growth, improved margins and embedded a culture of continuous improvement.
“A three-year business plan for Actons – centred on sustainable growth, client care and a thriving internal culture – is also paying dividends. A multi-disciplinary leadership team has seen a boost to turnover – supporting investment in digital and physical infrastructure as well as people development, including recruitment to build their private client and family law offering.”
Described as ‘a dominant force in the south-west’ and serving clients across Devon, Cornwall and beyond, Wolferstans managing partner Alisa Willows said the award recognises the huge effort made by the team.
She added:
“We’ve always planned one step ahead, thinking not just about what we need to deliver this year, but what we’ll need to achieve next. That strategic focus runs right through the firm: everyone understands the plan, and it shapes what we do every day.
“For me, the real breakthrough has been clarity of purpose. Our people now talk about our strategy and our vision for delivering ‘exceptional legal experiences’ without being prompted. That’s when you know the culture is truly embedded and enabling performance at every level.”
Receiving the award on behalf of Actons, director and chief operations officer Matt Coleman said:
“This award recognises the hard work of everyone at Actons. It’s been a real team effort, built on developing our people, promoting from within and creating a culture where everyone enjoys working together. Our position in the Nottingham market as an independent law firm is increasingly unique, and this recognition really sets us apart and gives us the credibility we strive for.
“We’re proud to be recognised among such a strong network of firms and excited to keep building on this success for our colleagues, clients and community.”
Other winners included Stephen Rimmer LLP, awarded Excellence in Client Care; Best Innovation for Banner Jones Solicitors; and ESG Initiative Award for Tozers LLP.
Talitha Shandley from Bell Lamb & Joynson Solicitors was named Early Career Lawyer of the Year, while Georgia Bolton from Thompson Smith and Puxon was given the award for Rising Star under 35.
Team of the Year (Business Law) was awarded to the property litigation team at Nicholsons Solicitors LLP, and Team of the Year (Individual Law) was given to the private client team at Berry & Lamberts. The client experience team at Gardner Leader LLP was named Business Support Team of the Year.
‘Each of this year’s winners has shown outstanding ambition and a commitment to delivering high performance, redefining what excellence looks like in today’s legal world, and proving that when firms invest in their people, great results follow’, said LawNet chief executive Helen Hamilton-Shaw.
“Each year we see how the spirit of collaboration across our network drives innovation and lifts performance for everyone.”
