More stars to rise as in-house solicitors’ award expands

The Law Society of Scotland has expanded its prestigious In-house Rising Star Award with a new category to recognise trainees, in addition to spotlighting newly qualified solicitors.

Previously in the annual competition’s 13-year history, the two groups have competed for a single award despite being at distinctly different stages of their careers.

This year, for the first time, the judges will crown a first or second-year trainee and give a second award to a solicitor who has been qualified for up to five years.

Both categories will be judged on the contributions that entrants have made to their workplaces and the wider legal sector.

Rachael McLean, an award judge and member of the Law Society’s In-house Lawyers Committee, said: “I’m excited to see the calibre of entries we will receive this year. It’s a privilege to spotlight the variety of in-house careers and their contribution, as we collaborate with colleagues from various professions and work on a whole host of legal matters.

“This year is extra special as we recognise the two distinct early career stages for an in-house solicitor. It’s a chance for in-house teams to celebrate new talent and the impact their colleagues have made in such a short space of time.

“If there’s a shining star in your team, I’d encourage you to nominate them. I look forward to celebrating our nominees in due course, and have no doubt choosing our winners will be a difficult job!”

Applications close on Friday, 14 March and the two winners will be announced at the In-house Annual Conference which runs from 31 April to 1 May. Find out how to nominate a rising star on our website.