The outstanding achievements of legal professionals across England and Wales have been recognised by the judges of the Law Society’s Excellence Awards.

High-achieving individual solicitors and teams across the entire legal sector have been shortlisted in categories ranging from Excellence in Community Investment to Excellence in Innovation and Excellence in International Legal Services. The shortlist includes an in-house lawyer at a football club, a City firm, a university law school and an individual practitioner in a Yorkshire law firm.

Law Society President Linda Lee said: ‘Those who have made the shortlist should be extremely proud of their achievement, as this year we received a record number of superb entries. The awards recognise the innovation, quality and tenacity that is characteristic of the legal profession. We hope the shortlisted will act as an inspiration to others.’

This year has also seen the introduction of the Law Society Gazette's Legal Personality of the Year award. The Gazette’s editorial team have drawn up a shortlist of individuals, based on nominations from readers, who over the last 12 months have made an outstanding contribution to the profession. The winner will be selected by a judging panel chaired by editor-in-chief Paul Rogerson.

BBC Broadcaster Mishal Husain will present the awards at a ceremony on 21 October. To view the complete short list and awards categories visit the Law Society’s website.