The Yorkshire Legal Awards 2026 brought together the region’s legal community on Thursday 8 October at New Dock Hall, Leeds, for an unforgettable evening recognising the outstanding achievements of Yorkshire’s law firms, legal teams and individual professionals.
From emerging legal talent and specialist practitioners to the region’s leading law firms, the ceremony celebrated the expertise, innovation, dedication and commitment to clients that continue to shape Yorkshire’s legal profession.
Hosted by award-winning comedian Suzi Ruffell, the evening saw 26 awards presented across a wide range of legal practice areas, recognising the individuals and organisations making an exceptional contribution to the profession.
Among the night’s biggest honours, Ashley Bradley of MJC Law was crowned Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year 2026, while Switalskis Solicitors, Blacks and Ridley and Hall Solicitors secured the coveted Law Firm of the Year awards in the Large, Medium and Small categories respectively.
It was also a particularly successful evening for several firms taking home multiple trophies. Broadway House Chambers, Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors, Ridley and Hall Solicitors and Weightmans LLP each celebrated two award wins, highlighting the breadth of legal talent across the region.
Celebrating the very best of Yorkshire’s legal profession
The winners were selected following a rigorous independent judging process, with entries assessed on the strength of their achievements, supporting evidence, client outcomes, innovation and contributions to the wider community.
The judging panel was chaired by Luke Corcoran, President of Leeds Law Society, alongside representatives from across the legal profession and academia.
This year’s awards once again demonstrated that excellence in Yorkshire’s legal sector extends far beyond legal expertise alone. From pro bono initiatives and community engagement to technological innovation, leadership and exceptional client care, the winning entries reflected the positive impact being made by legal professionals throughout the region.
Following the awards presentation, guests continued the celebrations with live entertainment from Hipster, bringing another memorable evening for Yorkshire’s legal community to a close.
Yorkshire Legal Awards 2026: Full List of Winners
Below are all 26 award winners, including category sponsors and the judges’ feedback that helped distinguish this year’s recipients.
Chambers of the Year
Winner: Broadway House Chambers
Judges’ comments: The judges were impressed by the chambers’ initiatives, supported by strong evidence that demonstrated the quality of its work and helped the winning submission stand out.
In-House Team of the Year
Sponsored by BW Legal Services Limited
Winner: Leeds Bradford Airport
Judges’ comments: The team was praised for its role as a strategic partner, helping shape the direction of its organisation. Excellent feedback reinforced the value and impact of its contribution.
In-House Lawyer of the Year
Winner: Ben Spencer – Zenith
Judges’ comments: This award recognises a lawyer whose expertise makes a vital contribution to organisational success, combining a commitment to excellence and innovation with a positive impact in the wider community.
Intellectual Property
Winner: Appleyard Lees
Judges’ comments: The winner demonstrated specialist expertise in protecting clients’ ideas, creativity and innovations. Its dedication to client care, forward-thinking approach and contribution