The former chair of the Black Solicitors’ Network is among a clutch of lawyers nominated in the King’s Birthday Honours announced today. Paulette Mastin, who served in the role for five years, is awarded the CBE for services to diversity in legal services.

Mastin, a capital markets specialist, is currently a partner with international firm Reed Smith and previously enjoyed 26 years with Linklaters.

In an interview from 2016, Mastin told the Gazette she had been determined to reach a high level in a City law firm after being told at the start of her career that as a black female she would never be able to achieve it.

Audrey Ludwig, founder of Suffolk Law Centre who retired last November, is awarded an MBE for services to legal aid in Suffolk.

In an online post, she said: ‘This recognition reflects the efforts of a remarkable team at SLC, my former colleagues at Ipswich & Suffolk Council for Racial Equality and the support of a wider community who have shared in the vision and helped make it a reality. I accept it on their behalf as well as my own.’

Jane Harbottle, chief executive of the Legal Aid Agency, becomes a CBE in recognition of her public service.

Piers Le Marquand, senior lawyer with the Department for Transport, receives an OBE for services to the legal profession.

From the CPS, specialist prosecutor Hannah Sidaway (OBE), paralegal Parimalkumar Patel (MBE) and casework administration manager Elizabeth Swift (MBE) are all recognised for services to law and order.

Barrister Adam Dawson, head of the personal injury team at Deka Chambers, is awarded the MBE for services to charity and to the Jewish community.