Three new categories – of human rights, technology and private client practice – are included in the lineup for the Law Society Excellence Awards 2015.

Nominations for the awards, which include Law Society Gazette Legal Personality of the Year, have now opened.

The human rights category celebrates excellence and outstanding achievement in the year that marks the 800th anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta.

It will recognise an exceptional contribution to the promotion, protection and achievement of human rights – either through long-term activity or from a single outstanding case.

The technology category recognises the increased threat of cyber-attack to businesses and law firms. The award will go to a firm that can demonstrate excellence in implementing or developing a cybersecurity system and culture that meets the needs of their clients and fully engages their staff.

A new award for private client practice celebrates exceptional teams, firms or sole practitioners undertaking complex and demanding private client matters.

Law Society president Andrew Caplen said: ‘The Excellence awards are a time to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the legal profession, from private client work to international legal services and pro bono.

‘I am delighted that members asked for new categories. We have refreshed the list this year. The Human Rights Lawyer of the Year, Excellence in Technology and Excellence in Private Client Practice awards recognise the tremendous work of our colleagues in these areas.’

Nominations for an award are free of charge. The deadline for entries is 5 June. The ceremony takes place at the Hilton Park Lane Hotel, London on the evening of Thursday 22 October.

See lawsociety.org.uk/excellenceawards for more information.