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Recognising the very best of the Bar's commitment to Pro Bono work

19 Sep 2017

20th Anniversary BPBU Logo

Nominations for the Bar Pro Bono Award 2017 have opened at www.barprobono.org.uk/how-to-nominate.html and the search for the very best of the Bar in the last 12 months has begun.

With 20 years of illustrious winners celebrated in the Bar Pro Bono Unit’s most recent Annual Review (above), a host of standout nominations are expected from across the Bar.

What is the Award for?

Every year the Bar Pro Bono Award recognises outstanding commitment to pro bono work by a barrister or chambers. In deciding the winner, the judges will also take the importance of the assistance given and innovation into account.

Jess Campbell, the Bar Pro Bono Unit’s Chief Executive, commented: ‘The pro bono contribution of barristers is extremely important and deserves recognition and celebration. The gratitude of pro bono clients is often enough for volunteers, but this award helps to inspire others by showcasing the very best of the bar. I hope that many of you will consider making nominations this year.’

Last year’s winner, John Collins, of Zenith Chambers, with the 2016 Chairman of the Bar, Chantal-Aimée Doerries QC

How do I Make a Nomination?

Entry is free and could not be simpler; just download the form and guidance on the website www.barprobono.org.uk/how-to-nominate.html before the closing date - Monday 9th October.

Who decides the Winner?

The winner will be selected by an expert judging panel chaired by the Unit President, Lord Peter Goldsmith QC.

New judges have been appointed this year including last year’s winner, John Collins, and the Secret Barrister. Leaders of industry bodies such as the Bar Council, Legal Practice Management Association and Institute of Barristers’ Clerks among others are also core members of the judging panel.