Sarah Goodridge and Rebecca Stevens from Bath law firm, Withy King, have been shortlisted for Bristol Law Society’s annual awards which recognise the brightest and best local legal talent.
Sarah Goodridge works for Bath law firm Withy King
Sarah Goodridge, who is a Chartered Legal Executive in the commercial property team at Withy King in Bath, is one of the finalists up for Bristol Law Society’s Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) of the Year Award.
Her contributions to CILEx and the local community through her work with schools and colleges were recognised earlier in the year when she was presented with CILEx’s President’s Award.
Commenting on her successful nomination, Sarah who followed CILEx’s earn-as-you-learn route into the law, said: “I’m delighted to be considered for this award. I’m passionate about helping to raise the profile of CILEx and vocational training as a rewarding route into the legal profession.”
Rebecca Stevens, who is a member of Withy King’s family team and has particular expertise in dealing with complex cases involving children, has been shortlisted for Bristol Law Society’s Pro Bono Individual of the Year Award.
Rebecca has already been recognised nationally for her role in helping to support a father with learning difficulties in his battle to prevent his young son from being adopted, without Legal Aid or any other means to pay for his defence.
Rebecca said: “It’s an honour to make the shortlist and to have another opportunity to raise awareness of the devastating impact that Legal Aid cuts are having, particularly on the most vulnerable members of our society who I believe we have a duty to protect and support.”
The awards will be presented at Bristol Law Society’s Annual Dinner at the Marriott City Centre Hotel, Bristol, on the 15th October.
The BBC’s Legal Correspondent, Clive Coleman, will act as master of ceremonies.
Bristol Law Society President, Michael Gupwell, said: “Thank you to everyone who nominated in this years’ process and our particular congratulations to everyone who received a nomination.
“The nominations really are testament to the great legal work that is undertaken by both firms and individuals across the Bristol and Bath region.
“The judging panel had the unenviable task of shortlisting from the many nominations received, nominations which show the amazing work done the length and breadth of our region.”
